Conceptual Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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conceptual
[ˌkɒnˈsɛptʃʊəl ]
Definitions
thinking
relating to or based on ideas or concepts; abstract or theoretical.
Synonyms
abstract, ideational, theoretical.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| conceptual |
Used when referring to ideas or plans that are still in the thought stage and not yet concrete or practical. Often used in discussions about projects, art, and general theories.
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| abstract |
Utilized when discussing ideas, art, or topics that are not tangible or directly observable. Frequently applies to art and deeper philosophical discussions.
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Examples of usage
- conceptual thinking
- conceptual framework for the project
art
a work of art in which the idea behind the piece is more important than the finished product.
Synonyms
abstract art, idea-based art, non-representational art.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| conceptual |
Use this word when focusing on the ideas, theories, or intentions behind something rather than its physical form. Ideal when discussing thoughts or intellectual aspects.
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| abstract art |
Choose this phrase when referring to a style of art that does not attempt to represent external reality, but rather seeks to achieve its effect using shapes, colors, and textures.
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| idea-based art |
This phrase is similar to 'conceptual art' and is used when you want to highlight that the artwork is driven by ideas or concepts rather than aesthetics or traditional techniques.
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| non-representational art |
Apply this term when describing artwork that doesn't depict or represent any specific visual references from the real world. It focuses on abstract elements like shapes, colors, and lines.
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Examples of usage
- He is known for his conceptual art pieces.
- Conceptual art challenges traditional artistic conventions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In psychology, conceptual thinking allows individuals to solve problems using abstract ideas rather than relying solely on practical experiences.
- Cognitive development in children, as noted by psychologist Jean Piaget, relies on their ability to form conceptual frameworks to understand their surroundings.
- Conceptual frameworks are essential in therapy, helping individuals interpret their thoughts and feelings in a structured way.
Art and Design
- Many contemporary artists focus on conceptual art, where the idea behind the artwork is more important than the finished piece itself.
- In graphic design, conceptual development involves brainstorming ideas before creating visuals, ensuring clarity in communication.
- Famous works, like Marcel Duchamp's 'Fountain,' challenged traditional notions of art by prioritizing concept over craftsmanship.
Education
- Conceptual learning emphasizes understanding underlying principles rather than rote memorization of facts.
- Teaching approaches like inquiry-based learning encourage students to explore and develop their conceptual knowledge through questioning.
- In mathematics, grasping conceptual relationships (like fractions being parts of a whole) is crucial for applying skills to solve real-world problems.
Philosophy
- Philosophers often discuss the nature of concepts, exploring how they shape our understanding of reality.
- The distinction between conceptual knowledge and procedural knowledge is vital in discussions of education and learning.
- Philosophers like Immanuel Kant developed theories about how conceptual frameworks govern human perception.
Origin of 'conceptual'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'conceptual' comes from the Latin word 'conceptus,' meaning 'conceived.'
- It became established in English during the mid-20th century, primarily in psychology and philosophy.
- The prefix 'con-' means together, while '-cept' refers to taking or seizing, emphasizing how ideas are formed.
The word 'conceptual' originated from the Latin word 'conceptualis', which means 'pertaining to a concept'. The term has been used in various fields such as philosophy, art, and design to describe ideas or theories that are abstract or theoretical in nature. In art, conceptualism emerged as a significant movement in the 1960s, challenging traditional notions of art and emphasizing the importance of the idea behind the artwork.
See also: conception, conceptualizing, misconception.