abstract

Pronunciation: adjective. Synonyms: conceptual, hypothetical, ideational

adjective

Definition of abstract

present in thought or concept but lacking physical existence

Synonyms for abstract

abstract in a Sentence

  1. Justice is an abstract concept.

Why abstract Matters for GRE & SAT

"abstract" is a adjective that means "present in thought or concept but lacking physical existence " closely related to words like "conceptual", "hypothetical", "ideational". As a word starting with A, it belongs to a cluster of GRE and SAT vocabulary that test-takers often encounter in Verbal Reasoning, Text Completion, and Reading Comprehension sections.

On the GRE, understanding "abstract" helps you distinguish between closely related answer choices in Sentence Equivalence questions. On the SAT, recognizing this word in context strengthens your performance on Craft & Structure and Words in Context questions. Seeing how "abstract" is used in sentences — like the examples above — builds the contextual understanding that standardized tests reward.

Study tip: Start with the definition and part of speech (adjective). Then learn its 3 synonyms to build a word network. Finally, practice with spaced repetition to move "abstract" into long-term memory.

How to Remember abstract

One effective way to remember "abstract" (adjective) is to group it with similar words you already know: "conceptual" and "hypothetical" and "ideational". When you encounter "abstract" on a test, these synonym connections help you quickly recall its meaning — "present in thought or concept but lacking physical existence...".

Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition to review "abstract" at increasing intervals until it becomes automatic.

  • abate — decrease in intensity; lessen
  • aberrant — deviating from what is normal or expected
  • aberration — A departure from what is normal or expected
  • abet — assist or encourage, usually in wrongdoing
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abhor — detest or regard with deep hatred
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abject — most unfortunate or miserable

More Vocabulary Words Starting with A

  • abate — decrease in intensity; lessen
  • aberrant — deviating from what is normal or expected
  • aberration — A departure from what is normal or expected
  • abet — assist or encourage, usually in wrongdoing
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abhor — detest or regard with deep hatred
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abject — most unfortunate or miserable