instead of abstract

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instead of abstract" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing or contrasting something with an abstract concept or idea, indicating a preference for a more concrete or specific alternative. Example: "I prefer to focus on practical applications instead of abstract theories that may not have real-world relevance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

And as scholars have studied particular cases instead of abstract ideas, it has become apparent that the contrast between high and low has often been overdrawn.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He uses his finds the way Kurt Schwitters used eggshells and bus tickets, and although the result is figurative instead of abstract, it is just as conceptually based.

The New York Times

Hoping to attract those unfamiliar with ballet through storytelling instead of abstract works, he introduced evening-long contemporary narrative ballets like "The Queen of Spades," a tragedy of lust and illusion created last fall by the the Danish filmmaker and choreographer Kim Brandstrup.

The New York Times - Arts

As mentioned above, one possibility is that the memorial benefits of post-learning exercise are particularly apparent when trying to remember faces (instead of abstract shapes).

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

Instructors should place emphasis on mathematical applications instead of abstract theory whenever possible and integrate mathematical and statistical software throughout courses to highlight authentic application of concepts, methods and procedures, and collaborative learning to encourage students to play a more proactive role in their learning (Juan et al. 2011).

International Journal of STEM Education

Instead, they base their beliefs in different sources, in compassion, psychology and lived experience instead of abstract thought.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

This represents a possible 32-fold increase in recall when using full-text instead of abstracts.

Bioinformatics

In this reaction, instead of abstracting the C5 proton α to the carboxylate group, the expected reaction for a member of the ENS, the enzyme apparently abstracts the proton α to the aldehyde group to form 3-deoxy d- threo-hexulosuronate that undergoes a 1,2-hydride shift similar to the benzylic acid rearrangement to form the observed product.

Biochemistry

The analysts assessed the weights by referring to the range of performance the scales reflected instead of to abstract notions of importance.

Harvard Business Review

Instead of some abstract summons to freedom, it responsibly assumed its purpose: to render the government accountable to its will.

The New York Times

Mr. Sondheim says he's always most comfortable when he can create for a specific character instead of an abstract type or emotion.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about complex topics, use "instead of abstract" to clarify that you will focus on practical examples or tangible applications. This helps readers connect with the content more easily.

Common error

Avoid using abstract terms when concrete examples would be more effective. If you find yourself relying too much on "abstract" concepts, consider providing specific instances to illustrate your point, offering clarity to your readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instead of abstract" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used adverbially to modify a verb or clause. It indicates a preference or substitution of something concrete or specific in place of something theoretical or general. Ludwig provides multiple examples illustrating its use in contrasting ideas.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "instead of abstract" serves as a prepositional phrase used to express a preference for concrete or specific ideas over those that are theoretical or generalized. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across varied contexts, primarily in news, science, and academic writing. When using this phrase, consider the benefits of concrete examples in enhancing understanding and engagement, and avoid over-reliance on abstract terms without proper illustration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rather than abstract

Emphasizes a preference, similar to the original phrase.

as opposed to abstract

Highlights a contrast between the two concepts.

in place of abstract

Suggests a substitution of the abstract with something else.

preferring concrete to abstract

Rephrases the sentence to focus on the preference.

favoring tangible over abstract

Highlights a preference for tangible concepts.

opting for specific instead of abstract

Indicates a choice for specificity.

using concrete instead of abstract

Focuses on the action of using concrete ideas.

leaning towards real instead of abstract

Implies a tendency to favor the real.

choosing practical over abstract

Emphasizes the practical aspect.

valuing tangible over abstract

Suggests a higher value is placed on tangible things.

FAQs

How can I use "instead of abstract" in a sentence?

Use "instead of abstract" to show a preference for something concrete or specific over something theoretical or generalized. For example, "I prefer to focus on practical applications "rather than abstract" theories."

What's a good alternative to "instead of abstract"?

Alternatives include "rather than abstract", "as opposed to abstract", or "in place of abstract", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to be concrete or abstract in writing?

It depends on your audience and purpose. While abstract language can be useful for discussing theoretical concepts, concrete language is often more effective for engaging readers and making your writing more accessible. Using concrete language "instead of abstract" language can help to ensure that your message is easily understood.

How does using examples help when discussing abstract concepts?

Examples provide concrete illustrations of abstract concepts, making them easier to understand and relate to. When writing about complex ideas, using examples "rather than abstract" definitions can significantly improve clarity and comprehension.