English Reference
Adverb

philosophically

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˌfɪɫəˈsɑfɪkəɫi/ UK /fˌɪləsˈɒfɪkli/ philo·soph·i·cal·ly

adv.in a way that deals with deep questions about life, truth, and the universe. You use this when talking about thinking or acting in a serious, thoughtful way.

adv.in a manner relating to the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence. Often describes a person's approach to life or a specific problem.


SIMPLE

He is philosophically opposed to the new law.

CONTEXTUAL

The two friends spent the entire evening philosophically discussing the meaning of happiness and success.

COMPLEX

While the two scientists disagreed on the technical data, they were philosophically aligned in their belief that nature should be protected for future generations.

I think everyone would agree that, substantively and philosophically, this is aligned with the mayor’s public policy approach and his vision for the city,” Lenchner added.

Al Jazeera· 20 Aug 2026

From philosophical + -ly.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated