Psychologically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🧠
Add to dictionary

psychologically

[ˌsaɪk.əˈlɒdʒ.ɪ.kəl.i ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

mental health

In a way that relates to the mind and its processes, especially in terms of emotions and behavior.

Synonyms

cognitively, mentally.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
psychologically

Typically used in a similar manner as the first entry, relating to mental and emotional states, often within formal or scientific discussions.

  • The experiment was designed to assess how people respond to stressful situations psychologically
  • Her experiences have left her psychologically scarred
mentally

A more general term that refers to anything related to the mind, often used in everyday language.

  • He felt mentally exhausted after the long day at work
  • You need to be both physically and mentally strong to run a marathon
cognitively

Used in contexts that refer specifically to mental processes related to knowledge, understanding, and thinking.

  • The tests were designed to measure the student's cognitive abilities
  • Progress in cognitive development is crucial during early childhood

Examples of usage

  • She is not physically but psychologically affected by the accident.
  • He is struggling psychologically after losing his job.
Context #2 | Adjective

psychology

Related to the mental and emotional state or processes of a person.

Synonyms

cognitively, mentally.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
psychologically

Often used in the same context as 'psychologically' but sometimes with a subtle emphasis on formal or academic discussion.

  • Psychologists study how people behave psychologically.
  • The treatment was designed to help patients recover psychologically.
mentally

Refers to the state of mind, often used in broader contexts to describe overall mental health or capacity.

  • She is mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.
  • Mentally, he needs to take a break to avoid burnout.
cognitively

Used when talking about mental processes related to thinking, understanding, learning, and remembering.

  • The child exhibited a high level of cognitive development.
  • His cognitive abilities declined with age.

Examples of usage

  • The psychologically distressed patients require special care.
  • She has a psychologically complex personality.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures interpret mental health and psychological concepts in unique ways, affecting treatment approaches.
  • In Eastern philosophies, the balance of mind and body is crucial, whereas Western traditions often emphasize individual psychology.
  • Popular media often portrays psychological themes, influencing public perception of mental health issues.

Science

  • Psychological studies often explore how environmental factors influence behavior and mental processes.
  • Research shows that emotions can directly affect decision-making, sometimes leading to irrational choices.
  • Many psychological theories, like cognitive dissonance, explain how conflicting beliefs can cause discomfort in individuals.

Psychology Subfields

  • Clinical psychology focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders through various therapeutic techniques.
  • Developmental psychology studies how people grow and change from childhood through old age.
  • Social psychology examines how people's thoughts and behaviors are affected by the presence and actions of others.

Historical Significance

  • The field gained significant attention in the late 19th century with figures like Sigmund Freud, who introduced psychoanalysis.
  • World Wars I and II led to advancements in psychological treatment for soldiers suffering from trauma, shaping modern therapy.
  • Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) became popular in the late 20th century, emphasizing the connection between thoughts and emotions.

Origin of 'psychologically'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Greek 'psyche', meaning 'soul' or 'mind', combined with 'logia', which means 'study' or 'discourse'.
  • It was first used in English in the late 19th century, highlighting the rise of psychology as a formal discipline.
  • The prefix 'psycho-' appears in various terms related to the mind, including 'psychology' and 'psychotherapy'.

The word 'psychologically' is derived from the word 'psychology', which comes from the Greek words 'psyche' meaning 'soul' or 'mind' and 'logos' meaning 'study'. The term psychology was first used in the 16th century to refer to the study of the mind and behavior. Over time, the adverb 'psychologically' was formed to describe actions or processes related to the mind and its functions.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,235, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.