What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abstract
Example
The concept of love is abstract and difficult to define. [abstract: adjective]
Example
The article provides an abstract of the research paper. [abstract: noun]
Example
The painting was abstract, with no recognizable shapes or forms. [abstract: adjective]
theoretical
Example
The professor presented a theoretical framework for understanding human behavior. [theoretical: adjective]
Example
The hypothesis is still theoretical and requires further testing. [theoretical: adjective]
Example
The research project involved a lot of theoretical analysis and modeling. [theoretical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Theoretical is more commonly used than abstract in academic or scientific contexts, while abstract is more versatile and can be used in various fields, including art, philosophy, and science.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abstract and theoretical?
Both abstract and theoretical are formal words that are typically used in academic or intellectual contexts.
