adj
Uncommon
conceptual
kuhn-SEHP-tyoorl
Conceptual (adj) means relating to ideas, concepts, or abstract thinking rather than concrete details. Example: “The architect presented a conceptual sketch before the detailed plans.”
adj
1
Relating to ideas, concepts, or abstract thinking rather than concrete details.
"The architect presented a conceptual sketch before the detailed plans."
"The course focuses on conceptual understanding rather than memorization."
"Her argument was too conceptual, and the class wanted a real example."
How to use conceptual
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHaving to do with ideas and abstract thinking, as opposed to concrete facts or finished details.
Common pairings
conceptual art
conceptual framework
conceptual design
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more conceptual
- Superlative
- most conceptual
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The architect presented a _____ sketch before the detailed plans.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin conceptuālis, ultimately from Latin conceptus, "conceived" — related to concept.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for conceptual
See all rhymes for conceptual →Frequently asked questions
What does “conceptual” mean?
The word “conceptual” means relating to ideas, concepts, or abstract thinking rather than concrete details. In plain terms, having to do with ideas and abstract thinking, as opposed to concrete facts or finished details.
How do you pronounce “conceptual”?
“Conceptual” is pronounced kuhn-SEHP-tyoorl (/kənˈsɛp.t͡ʃu.əl/ in IPA).
How do you use “conceptual” in a sentence?
Here is “conceptual” used in a sentence: “The architect presented a conceptual sketch before the detailed plans.”
What is another word for “conceptual”?
Words with a similar meaning to “conceptual” include conceptualistic.
What part of speech is “conceptual”?
“Conceptual” is an adjective.
Where does the word “conceptual” come from?
The word “conceptual” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin conceptuālis, ultimately from Latin conceptus, "conceived" — related to concept.
Is “conceptual” a common word?
“Conceptual” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between "conceptual" and "theoretical"?
"Conceptual" relates to ideas, concepts, or abstract thinking as opposed to concrete details, describing how something is understood in the mind. "Theoretical" more specifically relates to theory as opposed to practice, often within a scientific or academic framework. The two overlap but "conceptual" is the broader term for anything dealing with abstract ideas.
What is the difference between "conceptual" and "abstract"?
"Abstract" describes something that exists as an idea rather than a physical thing, while "conceptual" specifically relates to concepts and the process of forming ideas. A conceptual framework organizes abstract ideas, so "conceptual" often describes the structure or approach, while "abstract" describes the nature of the content itself.
What does "conceptual" mean in art?
In art, "conceptual" describes work where the idea or concept behind a piece matters more than its physical execution or aesthetic details. Conceptual art prioritizes the thinking and meaning behind a piece over traditional craftsmanship or visual appeal.
