Metaphysical (Adjective)
Meaning 1
Pertaining to or of the nature of metaphysics; "metaphysical philosophy".
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Examples
- The complex metaphysical concepts in the ancient text required intense study and contemplation to fully comprehend.
- Her metaphysical views on the universe and its mysteries had a profound impact on modern philosophical thought.
- Plato's metaphysical ideas of the world being comprised of abstract forms rather than concrete objects influenced many thinkers.
- Aristotle's metaphysical writings explored the nature of reality and being, sparking debates that continue to this day.
- Eastern spirituality and metaphysical principles are often intertwined in the teachings and practices of Buddhism and Taoism.
Related Words
Meaning 2
Transcending physical matter or the laws of nature; "metaphysical forces".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- The ancient philosophy posited that a metaphysical force governed the workings of the universe and influenced all living things.
- Many spiritual practices rely on metaphysical principles that connect the individual to the cosmos.
- Her writing explores the intersection of science and metaphysical concepts that try to explain the mysteries of life.
- In some cultures, healers are believed to tap into metaphysical forces to cure ailments and restore balance.
- The artist's use of abstract shapes and colors in her work is inspired by the metaphysical world she experiences during meditation.
Meaning 3
Highly abstract and overly theoretical; "metaphysical reasoning".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- The philosopher's metaphysical musings often left her audience perplexed and disinterested.
- Her metaphysical approach to understanding human nature, although intriguing, lacked concrete evidence.
- The professor warned students that metaphysical reasoning could lead to convoluted and impractical conclusions.
- He drifted into metaphysical speculations, pondering the meaning of life and the nature of reality.
- The academic community criticized the researcher's metaphysical theories as overly abstract and disconnected from reality.