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philosophically

C2
adverb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /fˌɪləsˈɒfɪkli/

US

  • /ˌfɪləˈsɑfɪkəli/
  • /ˌfɪləˈsɑfɪkli/

Description

To do something philosophically often means to think about it in a deep, reflective way. It can mean stepping back from the moment and looking at the bigger picture, basic ideas, or general truths. For example, someone might speak philosophically about death, freedom, or happiness while trying to understand what those things really mean.

It can also mean reacting with calm acceptance, especially in a hard situation. If a trip is canceled, someone might shrug and say philosophically, "These things happen." The word comes from "philosophy," so it can describe both deep thinking and a calm, reasoned attitude.

Examples

  1. 1

    Ethics discussion

    The students discussed the question philosophically, asking what makes an action right or wrong.

  2. 2

    Reflective writing

    She writes philosophically about friendship, memory, and the passing of time.

  3. 3

    Principles vs practice

    Philosophically, I agree with the idea, but I’m not sure it will work in practice.

    • Meaning

      philosophically

      in terms of basic beliefs or principles

  4. 4

    Coaching style

    The two coaches are philosophically different: one believes in strict discipline, and the other gives players more freedom.

  5. 5

    Calm acceptance

    He took the loss philosophically and said there would be another chance next year.

    • Pattern

      take + bad event philosophically

      accept it calmly

See also

adverbin terms of philosophy, abstract ideas, or underlying principles

Similar

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Used with (collocations)

  • philosophically speaking
  • think philosophically
  • philosophically inclined
  • philosophically opposed

Word family

Explore

  • worldview
  • abstract reasoning

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • philosophicallyadverb