on a physical level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a physical level" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to physical characteristics, actions, or processes. For example, "The effects of the virus on a physical level are still unknown."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Writer has always believed that "we are all mixed up in one another," that we are always speaking the truth to each other on a physical level, and always understanding one another.

The New Yorker

You realize, even on a physical level, the vagina is one of the strongest things that have ever existed.

Huffington Post

"I connected to her more on a physical level than on an intellectual one," Nixon said.

The New Yorker

"Right now, we just have one particular image in the media of suffering on a physical level as far as police brutality is concerned," says Sessoms of his motivation behind Ritual Spirit.

Vice

Chicago University professor Dr. Heinrich Jaeger hosted a meeting of minds from architecture, physics, and the material sciences to see how they might practically employ the "jamming phenomenon," which is what happens on a physical level when when you cram a bunch of stuff into one spot.

Vice

On a physical level, the answer is often simple: difference.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

There is mounting evidence that traumatic brain injury can affect athletes and soldiers on more than just a physical level.

The New York Times

If his palm is facing up, he's hoping to connect on more than just a physical level.[14].[14]

WikiHow

"I felt – on both a creative and a physical level – that I had been punished for 'going somewhere' that women are not supposed to go", she writes.

The Guardian - Books

But the mix also includes the unicorn; on a purely physical level a unicorn horn is a skinny relative of a spiral shell because it spirals before tapering to a point.

The New York Times

"On a purely physical level, as someone in my 30s the comedowns are a non-negotiable by-product that makes these two worlds literally impossible to co-exist," he explained.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts, use "on a physical level" to ground your explanation in concrete, observable effects or mechanisms to enhance understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "on a physical level" when discussing purely emotional or intellectual matters; it can sound awkward or misplaced if there's no tangible connection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a physical level" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the aspect or dimension being considered. As Ludwig AI states, it refers to physical characteristics, actions, or processes. For example, "Writer is reminded of ... involuntary functions".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a physical level" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to specify tangible and corporeal aspects across various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and very common, particularly in News & Media and Science. When writing, use "on a physical level" to emphasize concrete, observable effects, but avoid overuse in purely abstract discussions. Related phrases like "physically speaking" offer concise alternatives, but lack the same emphasis on tangible effects. The phrase enjoys a neutral register making it suitable for broad audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physically speaking

This alternative offers a more concise adverbial phrase, directly indicating a physical perspective.

in terms of physical impact

This focuses specifically on the impact something has on the physical body or environment.

regarding the body

This is a more direct and less nuanced way of referring to the physical aspect.

from a bodily perspective

This emphasizes the viewpoint being from the body itself.

in the physical realm

This elevates the context to refer to an entire domain of physical existence.

on a corporeal plane

This uses more formal language to indicate the physical existence.

with respect to physicality

This emphasizes the characteristic of being physical.

considering the tangible aspects

This shifts the focus to concrete and perceptible elements.

in a tangible manner

Highlights how actions or results can be physically observed or felt.

through physical means

This specifies the way something is achieved—by physical action or processes.

FAQs

How can I use "on a physical level" in a sentence?

Use "on a physical level" to describe the tangible or bodily effects of something. For example, "Stress can affect you "on a physical level" by raising your blood pressure".

What phrases are similar to "on a physical level"?

Alternatives include "physically speaking", "in terms of physical impact", or "regarding the body".

Is it correct to use "on a physical level" when discussing emotions?

While emotions can have physical manifestations, using "on a physical level" is more appropriate when discussing concrete, measurable effects on the body, rather than the emotion itself.

How does "on a physical level" differ from "on an emotional level"?

"On a physical level" refers to tangible, bodily effects, while "on an emotional level" refers to feelings and psychological states. For example, exercise impacts you "on a physical level" by improving cardiovascular health and "on an emotional level" by reducing stress.