at the conceptual level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the conceptual level" is correct in written English.
It can be used to refer to an understanding of something that is based on abstract thought, rather than concrete evidence or practical experience. For example, "The student has a good understanding of the subject at the conceptual level, but lacks the practical skills needed to apply it to a real-world situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Working at the conceptual level — without worrying over fine details — they could grasp what colleagues in other divisions were doing.

The New Yorker

They might seem to relate at the conceptual level more to honesty than to justice.

SEP

"At the conceptual level, they're right, the two devices are apple and oranges," Dukker says.

Forbes

And it's at the conceptual level that Laybourne claims she will make her biggest impact.

Forbes

A change impact model is defined at the conceptual level and mapped on the C++ language.

Science of Computer Programming

These projects try to represent the main mapping activities at the conceptual level.

Journal of King Saud University - Computer and Information Sciences

Moreover, while perception is automatic, at the conceptual level the operation of consciousness is free from causal necessitation.

SEP

Thus many people who appear to be operating at the conceptual level may not in fact be fully doing so.

SEP

The researchers suggested that the feeling of familiarity could be involved in the processing mechanism at the conceptual level.

Brain Informatics

In this paper we present Web Modeling Language (WebML), a notation for specifying complex Web sites at the conceptual level.

Computer Networks

In the past years, some proposals for representing main MD modeling properties at the conceptual level have been stated.

Information Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the conceptual level" when you want to discuss ideas or models without getting bogged down in specific details or implementations. It's useful for explaining the core essence of a topic.

Common error

Avoid using "at the conceptual level" when you're actually discussing the practical implementation or real-world application of an idea. Stick to phrases that reflect hands-on or concrete aspects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the conceptual level" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the perspective or domain of consideration. It indicates that something is being considered in terms of its abstract ideas and principles, rather than its concrete details or practical applications. Ludwig provides many examples to clarify this adverbial function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

64%

News & Media

19%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at the conceptual level" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adverbial phrase that serves to specify a focus on abstract ideas rather than concrete details. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It's particularly common in scientific and academic writing, establishing the scope of discussions and analyses. When using this phrase, remember to ensure it aligns with the theoretical aspects of your topic and avoid confusing it with practical applications. Alternative phrases such as "in theory" or "from an abstract viewpoint" can offer similar meanings depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the abstract

Similar to "in theory", implying a discussion removed from practical considerations.

from an abstract viewpoint

Highlights the abstract nature of the consideration, emphasizing a detachment from concrete details.

as an abstract concept

Focuses on the concept itself rather than its real-world applications.

on a theoretical plane

Focuses more specifically on the theoretical aspect, suggesting a detached or idealized perspective.

in theory

Indicates a theoretical possibility or understanding, often contrasted with practical reality.

in principle

Implies a general agreement or understanding without practical application or detailed consideration.

on an intellectual basis

Highlights the cognitive and analytical aspect of the understanding.

at a higher level

Suggests a broad overview, moving away from granular details and specific implementations.

from a general perspective

Emphasizes broad understanding and application across different contexts.

in the realm of ideas

Emphasizes the speculative and imaginative nature of the discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "at the conceptual level" in a sentence?

You can use "at the conceptual level" to describe understanding or planning that is abstract and theoretical, rather than practical. For example, "At the conceptual level, the project seemed promising, but the practical challenges were significant."

What is a good alternative to "at the conceptual level"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "in theory", "from an abstract viewpoint", or "on a theoretical plane" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "at the conceptual level" in formal writing?

Yes, "at the conceptual level" is suitable for formal writing, especially in academic, scientific, and business contexts where abstract ideas are frequently discussed.

What does it mean to understand something "at the conceptual level"?

Understanding something "at the conceptual level" means grasping the fundamental principles and ideas behind it, without necessarily knowing all the specific details or practical steps involved.