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Immaterially Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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immaterially

[ɪˈmɪtərɪəli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

abstract concept

Immaterially refers to something that is not made of matter; it is intangible or not composed of physical substance. It is often used in philosophical or legal contexts to discuss issues that do not have a physical presence or relevance.

Synonyms

ethereally, insubstantially, intangibly, spiritually.

Examples of usage

  • Her contributions were immaterially significant.
  • The character's emotions were immaterially portrayed.
  • In legal terms, some aspects may be considered immaterially important.
  • The debate focused on immaterially ethical considerations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In philosophical discussions, immateriality is often tied to the idea of the mind or spirit being distinct from the body.
  • Many philosophical traditions explore the immaterial realm, including concepts of consciousness and existence beyond the physical world.
  • Some philosophers, like Descartes, argued that the mind is an immaterial substance, contrasting with the material body.

Science

  • In physics, concepts like energy and forces can be described as immaterial since they do not have mass or a physical presence.
  • Quantum mechanics introduces immaterial aspects to reality, suggesting elements behave in non-tangible ways at the subatomic level.
  • Theories in modern physics often challenge traditional notions of materiality, exploring the nature of space and time as immaterial constructs.

Literature

  • Many authors use immaterial themes to explore emotions, memories, and dreams, emphasizing a disconnect from the physical world.
  • Poets often describe love or beauty in immaterial terms, focusing on feelings rather than concrete experiences.
  • In magical realism, elements that are immaterial often play crucial roles, blending the real with the ethereal.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Various cultures hold beliefs in immaterial entities like spirits, ancestors, or deities, influencing traditions and rituals.
  • In many religions, concepts such as the soul or the afterlife are based on immaterial existence, shaping moral and ethical frameworks.
  • Art forms such as music and dance often evoke immaterial responses, focusing on feelings and atmospheres rather than literal interpretations.

Origin of 'immaterially'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'immaterialis', where 'in-' means 'not' and 'materialis' means 'of matter'.
  • It evolved in Middle English through Old French, reflecting a transition between languages.
  • The prefix 'im-' is commonly found in words that negate their root; for instance, 'impossible' and 'immature' also fall under this pattern.

The term 'immaterially' is derived from the word 'immaterial,' which has its roots in the late Middle English period, originating from the Latin word 'immaterialis.' This Latin term is a combination of 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'materialis,' which relates to matter or physical substance. The suffix '-ly' in English is often used to form adverbs from adjectives. As the concept of immateriality evolved, it began to encompass not just physical absence but also philosophical debates concerning existence, reality, and the essence of being. In contemporary language, 'immaterially' is frequently utilized in discussions about intangible assets in economics, as well as in debates on moral and ethical dilemmas where physical evidence is absent, highlighting its ongoing relevance in both philosophical and practical discourses.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,065, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.