Abstraction

/əbˈstrækʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The quality of dealing with ideas rather than events.

The artist's work is a remarkable abstraction of emotional experiences.

A concept or idea that is not associated with any specific instance.

In mathematics, abstraction allows us to work with general theories without the need for specific examples.

The process of considering something independently of its associations or attributes.

Abstraction is key in programming, allowing developers to create complex systems by simplifying component functionalities.

The act of extracting or removing something.

The abstraction of essential features in a design can lead to a more streamlined product.

Derived from the Latin 'abstractio', from 'abstrahere', meaning 'to draw away'.

artistic abstraction

The use of shapes, colors, and forms to create a composition that does not depict the reality.

in the abstract

Considered in a general form, without reference to specific examples.

abstract thinking

A form of reasoning that involves thinking about concepts and ideas rather than concrete details.

abstract

Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.

concrete

Existing in a material or physical form; real or solid.

In a broad sense, not pinpoint or specific.

His plans for the weekend were pretty abstract; nothing set in stone.

A way of talking that is unclear or vague.

When he explained his project, it was all abstraction; I couldn't understand what he was aiming for.