philosophy
n.-
1 academic study (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Philosophythe study of the nature of knowledge, reality, and existence.
the academic discipline that uses reason and logic to investigate the nature of reality, ethics, and human existence.
ExampleShe decided to study philosophy at university to understand different ways of thinking.
ExampleThe department offers a rigorous introduction to Western philosophy, focusing primarily on the transition from classical metaphysics to modern existentialism.
UsageOften used as an uncountable noun when referring to the field of study.
-
2 personal belief system (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatea set of beliefs or ideas that guide how you live or work.
a particular system of principles or beliefs for conduct or for the explanation of a specific domain.
ExampleThe company's philosophy is to put the customer's needs first.
ExampleHis coaching philosophy emphasizes long-term player development over immediate competitive results, even during the championship season.
UsageCommonly used as a countable noun in this sense.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
-
3 calmness (n.) C2 Proficiency Formala calm and sensible way of dealing with a difficult situation.
a calm and stoic attitude toward life's difficulties or disappointments.
ExampleHe accepted the loss of his job with philosophy, believing that a better opportunity would come.
ExampleShe endured the series of administrative setbacks with remarkable philosophy, refusing to let the delays affect her professional focus.
UsageOften appears in the phrase 'to take something with philosophy'.
From Middle English philosophie, Old French philosophie, and their source, Latin philosophia, from Ancient Greek φιλοσοφία (philosophía), from φίλος (phílos, “loving”) + σοφία (sophía, “wisdom”). By surface analysis, philo- + -sophy. Displaced Old English ūþwitegung.