in abstract terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in abstract terms" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate something that is being discussed or described in a general or theoretical way, rather than in specific or concrete terms. Example: "The philosopher spoke about the concept of justice in abstract terms, without referencing any specific laws or cases."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Part of the problem is that citizens view the death penalty in abstract terms.

The New York Times

If we are sure of our argument, why bury it in abstract terms?

The Guardian

Architects work in abstract terms, while engineers work more with models of nature.

The New York Times - Arts

Davies's freedom of speech is worth defending both in abstract terms – of course – but also in practical terms.

The Guardian

He spoke in abstract terms about a "real World Series" and said he would probably not live to see it.

The New York Times - Sports

But while the lawyers spoke in abstract terms about long-ago interrogations, failed motions and suspicious evidence, the survivors provided painful, personal portraits of crime.

The New York Times

Among the participants in "Chronicle of a Summer" are French students who faced the draft and who discussed their opposition to the war, albeit in abstract terms.

The New Yorker

Nonetheless, the piece, to an original score by Scott Johnson (performed live by the Fireworks Ensemble), works perfectly well in abstract terms.

The New York Times - Arts

Anxious to avoid a repetition, Mr. Bush and his budget planners were content yesterday to talk in abstract terms about returning the people's money to the people.

The New York Times

In a scathing front-page editorial in Haaretz, a columnist, Tom Segev, wrote: "Benedict chose to phrase even the most universal lessons of the Holocaust in abstract terms.

The New York Times

A large, horizontal, heavily inked abstraction, it suggests a mountain range, the ocean, a wide-open landscape and even a rain cloud — nature captured in abstract terms.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in abstract terms" when you want to discuss a concept or idea without getting bogged down in specific details or examples. This is particularly useful in academic or philosophical discussions.

Common error

Avoid using "in abstract terms" excessively, especially when clarity is paramount. Ensure you balance abstract discussions with concrete examples to make your writing more accessible and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in abstract terms" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that something is being discussed or considered in a general, non-specific way. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, showing its usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in abstract terms" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adverbial phrase that indicates a discussion or consideration is happening at a general, conceptual level. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely employed across various domains, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While valuable for high-level discussions, it's important to balance its use with concrete examples for clarity. Related phrases like "theoretically speaking" and "in general terms" can offer nuanced alternatives. Avoid overuse to maintain engagement and accessibility in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in general terms

Highlights the lack of specific details.

on a theoretical level

Specifies the level of abstraction.

in theory

Highlights the contrast with practical application.

without specifics

Directly indicates the absence of concrete details.

theoretically speaking

Shifts the focus to theoretical discussion.

at a high level

Suggests a broad overview without delving into details.

conceptually

Emphasizes the idea or concept being discussed.

philosophically

Implies a focus on underlying principles and ideas.

generally speaking

Focuses on a broad overview rather than specific instances.

on principle

Focuses on the guiding principle rather than practical considerations.

FAQs

How can I use "in abstract terms" in a sentence?

You can use "in abstract terms" to describe something discussed generally, without specific details. For example, "The ethical implications were discussed "in abstract terms", focusing on principles rather than individual cases."

What are some alternatives to using "in abstract terms"?

Alternatives include "theoretically speaking", "in theory", or "generally speaking", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to explain a concept "in abstract terms" or with concrete examples?

It depends on your audience and purpose. "In abstract terms" is useful for high-level discussions, while concrete examples make the concept more relatable and understandable. A balance of both is often ideal.

What's the difference between "in abstract terms" and "in general terms"?

"In abstract terms" refers to discussing concepts or ideas, while "in general terms" refers to discussing things without specific details. They are similar, but "in abstract terms" focuses more on conceptualization.