metaphysical
met-uh-FIZ-ih-kul
/ˌmetəˈfɪzɪkl/
Relating to metaphysics; dealing with abstract concepts such as existence, causality, space, and time beyond physical science.
Refers to theoretical reasoning about fundamental reality that cannot be settled purely by empirical observation.
The story behind the word. Originates from ancient editors of Aristotle's works. When cataloging Aristotle's treatises, Andronicus of Rhodes placed the un-titled texts on fundamental reality after the books on physics ('ta meta ta physika'—literally 'the books after the physical ones'). The name stuck to the subject itself.
Word relationships
- abstract: 'Abstract' refers to theoretical ideas away from concrete instances, whereas 'metaphysical' specifically concerns the foundational nature of reality.
- empirical: 'Empirical' relies on physical observation, experimentation, and sensory data.
Commonly confused with
- physical: 'Physical' deals with matter and observable energy; 'metaphysical' goes beyond sensory observation.
Word family
- metaphysics (noun): The branch of philosophy studying fundamental reality.
- metaphysician (noun): A philosopher specializing in metaphysics.
Collocations
- metaphysical question
- metaphysical poets
- metaphysical reality
- metaphysical assumption
Example sentences
- "John Donne and the Metaphysical poets combined emotional intensity with elaborate intellectual conceits." Poetry critique
- "Questions about what existed before the Big Bang enter a purely metaphysical realm." Scientific inquiry
Memory hook
META-PHYSICAL: META means BEYOND. Going BEYOND the PHYSICAL world. Beyond physical science.
When not to use
Avoid using as a vague synonym for 'supernatural' or 'magic' in scholarly writing.
Fun facts
- Metaphysics owes its name to a librarian's shelf organization rather than Aristotle's intention!
Related words
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