abstract vocabulary words

Abstract Nouns: List of 165 Important Abstract Nouns from A to Z

By: Author English Study Online

Posted on Last updated: November 3, 2023

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If you’re learning English, you’ve probably come across these tricky little words before. In this article, we’ll be exploring what abstract nouns are, how to use them, and why they’re important in the English language. We’ll be providing examples of abstract nouns and explaining how they differ from concrete nouns. We’ll also be discussing how to recognize abstract nouns in a sentence and how to use them correctly in your writing.

Table of Contents

Abstract Noun Definition

Abstract nouns are intangible concepts or ideas that cannot be experienced with the five senses. They represent things like emotions , ideas, qualities , and states of being . Unlike concrete nouns that refer to physical objects or things that can be perceived by the senses, abstract nouns cannot be seen, touched, heard, smelled, or tasted.

Examples of abstract nouns include love, peace, hope, freedom, happiness, courage, and honesty . These nouns represent concepts that cannot be measured or quantified, but they are essential to human experience and communication. For example, we use abstract nouns like love to express a deep emotional connection to someone or something.

One way to identify abstract nouns is to think about whether you can see, touch, hear, smell, or taste the thing being described. If you cannot, it is likely an abstract noun. For example, the word “ beauty” is an abstract noun because it is a concept that cannot be seen or touched.

It is important to note that abstract nouns can be difficult to define precisely because they represent intangible concepts. However, they are essential to effective communication and can add depth and nuance to our language. By understanding abstract nouns, we can better express ourselves and connect with others on a deeper level.

Abstract Nouns List

Types of Abstract Nouns

As we mentioned earlier, abstract nouns are intangible ideas that cannot be perceived with the five senses. In this section, we will explore some of the different types of abstract nouns.

Emotions are one of the most common types of abstract nouns. They refer to feelings that we experience, such as love, anger, sadness, and happiness . These emotions cannot be seen or touched, but they can be felt and expressed through language and behavior.

Ideas are another type of abstract noun. They refer to concepts and thoughts that exist in our minds, such as freedom, democracy, justice, and equality . These ideas are not physical objects, but they can have a powerful impact on our lives and society.

Qualities are abstract nouns that describe characteristics or attributes of people, things, or ideas. Examples of qualities include honesty, bravery, intelligence, and creativity. These qualities cannot be seen or touched, but they can be demonstrated through actions and behaviors.

Experiences

Experiences are abstract nouns that refer to events or situations that we encounter in our lives. Examples of experiences include success, failure, adventure, and tragedy . These experiences cannot be physically touched or seen, but they can have a profound impact on our lives and shape who we are as individuals.

Abstract Nouns vs. Concrete Nouns

In English, nouns can be divided into two main categories: abstract nouns and concrete nouns . Abstract nouns are used to describe ideas, concepts, and feelings that cannot be perceived through the senses. Concrete nouns, on the other hand, are used to describe physical objects that can be seen, touched, heard, smelled, or tasted.

• For example, the word “ love ” is an abstract noun because it describes a feeling or emotion that cannot be seen or touched.
• In contrast, the word “ table ” is a concrete noun because it describes a physical object that can be seen and touched.

It is important to understand the difference between abstract and concrete nouns because they are used differently in sentences. Concrete nouns are often used as the subject or object of a sentence, while abstract nouns are often used to describe a quality or attribute of a concrete noun.

• For example, in the sentence “ The dog chased the ball ,” “dog” and “ball” are both concrete nouns because they describe physical objects.

In the sentence “The dog showed loyalty to its owner,” “loyalty” is an abstract noun because it describes a quality of the dog’s behavior.

Here are some more examples of abstract and concrete nouns:

List of Common Abstract Nouns

Usage of abstract nouns.

Abstract nouns play a crucial role in both writing and speech. In this section, we will explore the different ways in which abstract nouns can be used effectively.

Abstract nouns are often used in writing to convey emotions and ideas that cannot be easily expressed through concrete nouns. Here are some ways in which abstract nouns can be used effectively in writing:

• Describing emotions: Abstract nouns such as “love,” “happiness,” and “sadness” can be used to describe emotions in a way that is more impactful than using concrete nouns. For example, instead of saying “She felt a warm feeling in her heart,” we can say “She felt a deep sense of love.”
• Explaining concepts: Abstract nouns can be used to explain complex concepts in a concise and clear manner. For example, instead of saying “The process of photosynthesis involves the conversion of light energy into chemical energy,” we can say “Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.”
• Creating imagery: Abstract nouns can be used to create vivid imagery in writing. For example, instead of saying “The sunset was beautiful,” we can say “The sky was painted with hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a breathtaking display of beauty.”

Abstract nouns are also commonly used in speech to convey ideas and emotions. Here are some ways in which abstract nouns can be used effectively in speech:

• Expressing feelings: Abstract nouns can be used to express feelings and emotions in a way that is more impactful than using concrete nouns. For example, instead of saying “I am happy,” we can say “I am filled with a sense of happiness.”
• Discussing ideas: Abstract nouns can be used to discuss complex ideas and concepts in a clear and concise manner. For example, instead of saying “The economy is experiencing a period of growth,” we can say “There is a sense of prosperity in the economy.”
• Creating connections: Abstract nouns can be used to create connections between different ideas and concepts. For example, instead of saying “These two ideas are related,” we can say “There is a strong connection between these two concepts.”

Abstract Nouns List | Infographic

Practice Exercises

Practice exercises are a great way to reinforce your understanding of abstract nouns. In this section, we’ll cover two types of exercises: identifying exercises and usage exercises.

Identifying Exercises

In identifying exercises, you’ll be asked to identify the abstract noun in a sentence. Here are a few examples:

• The beauty of nature is awe-inspiring.
• Her kindness towards others is admirable.
• The concept of time is difficult to grasp.

In each of these sentences, the abstract noun is underlined. Can you identify them? The answers are:

Usage Exercises

Usage exercises are a bit more challenging. In these exercises, you’ll be asked to use abstract nouns in your own sentences. Here are a few examples:

• Write a sentence using the abstract noun “love”.
• Write a sentence using the abstract noun “happiness”.
• Write a sentence using the abstract noun “freedom”.

Here are some possible answers:

• Our love for each other grows stronger every day.
• Her happiness was contagious and spread to everyone around her.
• Freedom is a fundamental right that should be protected at all costs.

Practice exercises are a great way to improve your understanding of abstract nouns. Make sure to keep practicing until you feel confident in your ability to identify and use abstract nouns correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common examples of abstract nouns in English?

There are many examples of abstract nouns in English, including love, courage, intelligence, creativity, communication, development, importance, and many more. Abstract nouns are words that describe intangible concepts or ideas that cannot be seen, touched, or heard.

How can abstract nouns be formed?

Abstract nouns can be formed in several ways. One common way is to add a suffix to a verb, such as -tion, -ment, -ness, -ity, or -ance. For example, the verb “create” can be turned into the abstract noun “creativity” by adding the suffix -ity. Another way to form abstract nouns is by converting adjectives into abstract nouns, such as “beauty” from “beautiful” or “happiness” from “happy”.

Is the word ’emotion’ considered an abstract noun?

Yes, the word ’emotion’ is considered an abstract noun. Emotion is an intangible concept that cannot be seen or touched. It is a feeling or state of mind that is often associated with specific physical sensations , but is not itself a physical object. Other examples of abstract nouns that are related to emotions include love, happiness, sadness, and anger.

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Abstract Words: The Ultimate List to Unlock Your Abstract Thinking

By: Author ESLBUZZ

Posted on Last updated: September 14, 2023

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Abstract words are an essential part of the English language and are often used in various contexts. They are words that refer to concepts, ideas, or feelings that cannot be touched or seen. Abstract words can be challenging for English language learners to understand and use correctly. In this article, we will explore the meaning of abstract words, their importance in the English language, and how to use them effectively in writing and speaking.

Abstract Words

Understanding Abstract Words

Abstract words are words that describe concepts, ideas, or feelings that cannot be seen or touched. They are often used to describe intangible things such as emotions, ideas, or qualities. Examples of abstract words include love, hate, courage, and honesty. These words are important because they help us communicate complex ideas and emotions.

To help you better understand abstract words, here are some examples with their meanings:

Here are some example sentences using abstract words:

• She showed great courage during the difficult times.
• His honesty and integrity are beyond reproach.
• Love is a powerful emotion that can bring people together.
• Freedom is a fundamental human right that should be protected.
• Justice must be served for those who have been wronged.

Abstract vs. Concrete Words

Concrete words.

Concrete words are easier to define because they refer to tangible objects, people, and places. Here are some examples of concrete words:

The primary difference between abstract and concrete words is that abstract words refer to intangible concepts, while concrete words refer to tangible objects. Using a combination of both abstract and concrete words in your writing can help you convey complex ideas and make them more understandable for your readers.

When using abstract words, it’s important to provide clear and concise definitions to help your readers understand the concepts you’re discussing. When using concrete words, it’s important to provide specific details to help your readers visualize the objects or places you’re describing.

The Importance of Abstract Words

Communication.

Abstract words are an integral part of effective communication. They allow us to express complex ideas and emotions that cannot be conveyed through concrete words alone. For example, words like “love,” “honor,” and “justice” are abstract words that carry a significant amount of meaning and emotion. Without these words, our ability to communicate our thoughts and feelings would be severely limited.

Intelligence

Research has shown that individuals with a strong understanding of abstract words tend to have higher levels of intelligence. This is because abstract words require a deeper level of thinking and understanding than concrete words. When we learn abstract words, we are forced to think critically about the concepts they represent, which can help to enhance our overall cognitive abilities.

Abstract words are also essential for academic success. They are commonly used in academic writing and are often found in textbooks and scholarly articles. By developing your understanding of abstract words, you can improve your ability to comprehend and analyze complex academic texts.

Finally, understanding abstract words can help to increase your awareness and empathy for others. Abstract words like “compassion,” “empathy,” and “tolerance” are essential for building strong relationships and creating a more compassionate and understanding society.

Abstract Words in Different Aspects of Life

Abstract words play a significant role in society. They help us describe and understand the complex social structures and relationships that exist between individuals and communities. Some examples of abstract words that are commonly used in society include:

In the context of home, abstract words are used to express feelings and emotions related to family, comfort, and safety. Some examples of abstract words that are commonly used in the context of home include:

Abstract words are also used to describe the experiences and emotions of childhood. They help us understand the world around us and make sense of our experiences. Some examples of abstract words that are commonly used in the context of childhood include:

Abstract words are essential in describing the complex emotions and experiences that come with friendship. They help us express our feelings towards our friends and understand the dynamics of our relationships. Some examples of abstract words that are commonly used in the context of friendship include:

Abstract words are often used to describe the physical and emotional experiences of pain. They help us understand and communicate the intensity and nature of our pain. Some examples of abstract words that are commonly used in the context of pain include:

Abstract words are also used to describe the emotions and experiences of joy. They help us express our happiness and understand the things that bring us joy. Some examples of abstract words that are commonly used in the context of joy include:

Abstract words are often used to describe the state of peace and tranquility. They help us understand and communicate the absence of conflict and tension. Some examples of abstract words that are commonly used in the context of peace include:

Abstract words are also used to describe the concept of power and authority. They help us understand and communicate the dynamics of power and control. Some examples of abstract words that are commonly used in the context of power include:

Using Abstract Words Effectively

Choosing the right abstract words.

Choosing the right abstract words is crucial in effectively conveying your message. Here are some tips to help you choose the right abstract words:

• Consider your audience: Choose abstract words that your audience can relate to and understand.
• Use concrete examples: Use concrete examples to illustrate abstract concepts and ideas.
• Avoid ambiguity: Avoid using abstract words that are ambiguous or have multiple meanings.

Advantages of Using Abstract Words

Using abstract words can have several advantages in your writing. Here are some advantages of using abstract words:

• Adds depth and complexity: Abstract words can add depth and complexity to your writing, making your message more profound and thought-provoking.
• Evokes emotions: Abstract words can evoke emotions in your readers, making your writing more engaging and memorable.
• Allows for creativity: Abstract words allow for creativity in your writing, giving you the freedom to express yourself in unique and imaginative ways.

Challenges in Understanding Abstract Words

One of the main challenges learners face when trying to understand abstract words is confusion. Abstract words can have multiple meanings and can be used in various contexts, which can lead to confusion. For example, the word “love” can mean a strong feeling of affection, a great interest or pleasure in something, or a person or thing that one loves. Therefore, it is essential to understand the context in which the word is being used to understand its meaning correctly.

Another challenge learners face when trying to understand abstract words is difficulty. Abstract words are often complex and can be challenging to define or explain. For example, the word “happiness” is an abstract word that represents a feeling or emotion that is difficult to describe. Therefore, learners may struggle to understand and use abstract words correctly in sentences.

Understanding abstract words can be a significant challenge for learners, but it is essential to develop a strong vocabulary to communicate effectively in a new language. Here are some strategies that can help learners overcome the challenges of understanding abstract words:

• Use context clues: Pay attention to the words and phrases that surround an abstract word to help determine its meaning.
• Look up definitions: Use a dictionary or online resources to find definitions and examples of abstract words.
• Practice using abstract words in sentences: Practice using abstract words in sentences to help reinforce their meaning and usage.

Teaching Abstract Words

As educators, we know that teaching abstract words can be a challenge. Unlike concrete words, abstract words are intangible and difficult to visualize, making them harder for students to understand and remember. However, there are many activities and games that can help students learn abstract words in a fun and engaging way. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best ways to teach abstract words to your students.

Activities for Teaching Abstract Words

One effective way to teach abstract words is through activities that encourage students to use the words in context. Here are some examples of activities you can use in the classroom:

• Word Association: Have students brainstorm a list of words that are associated with the abstract word you’re teaching. For example, if you’re teaching the word “love,” students could come up with words like “affection,” “compassion,” and “devotion.”
• Sentence Completion: Provide students with a sentence that includes the abstract word you’re teaching, but with a blank space where the word should go. Have students fill in the blank with the correct word.
• Visualizing Abstract Words: Encourage students to create visual representations of abstract words. For example, students could draw a picture of “happiness” or “sadness” to help them understand the meaning of these abstract words.

Games for Teaching Abstract Words

Games are another great way to teach abstract words. Here are some examples of games you can use in the classroom:

• Charades: Have students act out the meaning of an abstract word without speaking. Other students must guess the word based on the actions.
• Bingo: Create bingo cards with abstract words and their definitions. Call out the definitions, and students must match them to the correct word on their bingo card.
• Word Scavenger Hunt: Hide cards around the classroom with abstract words written on them. Students must find the cards and write a sentence using the word correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common academic vocabulary words?

Academic vocabulary words are those that are commonly used in academic writing and communication. Some examples of academic vocabulary words include analyze, evaluate, summarize, hypothesis, methodology, and empirical. These words are often used in research papers, essays, and other academic writing assignments.

What is the 1,000 academic word list and where can I find it?

The 1,000 academic word list is a list of the most commonly used academic words in English. It is a useful resource for students who want to improve their academic vocabulary. The list can be found online and is often used by English language learners and teachers.

What are some resources for improving my academic writing vocabulary?

There are many resources available for students who want to improve their academic writing vocabulary. Some of these resources include academic vocabulary books, online vocabulary quizzes and exercises, and academic writing workshops. It is also helpful to read academic articles and papers to become familiar with the vocabulary used in academic writing.

How can I incorporate more abstract words into my writing?

Incorporating more abstract words into your writing can be challenging, but it is important for conveying complex ideas and concepts. One way to do this is to use analogies or metaphors to help explain abstract concepts. It is also helpful to use concrete examples to illustrate abstract concepts.

What are some examples of abstract words used in academic writing?

Some examples of abstract words used in academic writing include paradigm, discourse, ontology, epistemology, and methodology. These words are often used in academic disciplines such as philosophy, sociology, and psychology.

What are some techniques for memorizing and using abstract vocabulary words effectively?

One technique for memorizing abstract vocabulary words is to use flashcards or other memory aids. It is also helpful to use the words in context by writing sentences or paragraphs that incorporate the words. Another technique is to break down the words into their component parts to better understand their meanings. Finally, it is important to practice using the words in conversation and writing to become more comfortable with them.

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In this section, we covered some frequently asked questions about academic vocabulary words and how to improve your academic writing vocabulary. By incorporating these tips and techniques, you can become more confident and knowledgeable in your use of abstract vocabulary words.

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Abstract Words

Abstract words include both nouns and adjectives, providing us with a way to represent intangible conditions or concepts. By learning and having a greater understanding of abstract words, we can improve our communication skills, social skills and even our overall intelligence.

• 70% of the most frequently used 500 words in the TASA corpus have been classified as abstract according to a psycholinguistic database analysis.
• Studies that have involved a large number of representative English noun samples find that over 40% are categorized by humans as being abstract.
• A study into the effects of learning abstract words at 4th and 5th grade level showed a significant correlation with increased intelligence quotients.
• 4th graders were able to increase their IQ scores by 5.55% and 5th graders increased their IQ scores by 5.89% after repeated exposure to abstract words.
• Just 10% of a 3-year-olds’ vocabulary is abstract and this number rises to 25% in 5-year olds.
• However, by age 11, over 60% of the vocabulary is abstract.
• Despite the positives, texts that contain a higher number of abstract words are more difficult for the reader to understand.
• This happens as the reader or listener needs to process and construct visual representations in their mind.
• Within the military, abstract words can be used but their usage is recommended to be coupled with specific examples to prevent avoidable confusion.
• In comparison to abstract words, concrete words provide better clarity and readability.

Abstract words list

Below is a wordlist of commonly used abstract words alongside with their general topic. It is important to note that due to their nature, some abstract words may span multiple topics depending on the context the word is used in.

If you are searching for additional abstract words to include in your favorite word game, take a look at our word letter solver . Simply add the letters available to you for your next move, refine the search to your needs (for example, a length of 8-letters ) and hit search to find words with ease.

Abstract words and intelligence

• Research has found that there is a link between individuals that show a strong understanding of abstract words and having a higher level of intelligence.
• This is partly due to the fact that abstract words typically require us to think more deeply about their context and meaning, when compared to concrete words.
• Abstract words force us to use critical thinking skills to interpret the concept(s) being represented. 
• Practicing this with regularity, we can train our overall cognitive skills and develop our level of intelligence.

Abstract words effect on grades 4 and 5 students

• A study of 153 students in grades 4 and 5 shows that exposure to abstract words contributed towards increasing their average intelligence quotient scores.
• Students in grade 4 originally tested 107.12 on average prior to the study but this jumped 5.55% to 113.06 after the exposure. 
• The effect on grade 5 students was even greater, averaging 108.97 before and 115.39 after (an increase of 5.89%).

A graph is given below to show how exposure to abstract words for students in grades 4-5 affects intelligence quotients:

Abstract words and communication

• Abstract words form a key component for people with a high-level of written and spoken communication.
• Through abstract words, we are able to better express complex topics in a way that differs from just using concrete words.
• As an example, through abstract words we can communicate the different emotions we feel without needing to describe the physical effects that each emotion has on the body.
• Without the use of abstract words, our level of communication would be much more limited and lacking in expression.

Abstract words and education

• When it comes to achieving academic success, abstract words are an essential part of one’s vocabulary.
• Abstract words often feature in educational textbooks, scholarly articles and academic writing.
• Students that increase their understanding of abstract words should also find they can better comprehend and analyze written academic works.
• This can also help them when writing their own academic texts.

Abstract words and social skills

• Many abstract words are used to describe emotions and ideas related to social relationships.
• For example, “empathy”, “honesty” and “solidarity” can all be used to describe states that help people to gain comfort and trust in one another.
• By successfully interpreting the true meaning of abstract words, humans can increase their awareness and understanding for the other people around them.

Abstract words FAQ

What are abstract words.

• Abstract words can represent concepts, ideas and qualities.
• They describe things that cannot be typically perceived by using the five senses.
• Often, abstract words can take on a different meaning to each person, which adds a higher level of complexity when it comes to their comprehension.
• Furthermore, abstract words can be either adjectives or nouns.

What are abstract nouns?

• Abstract nouns are part of a subset within abstract words. 
• Instead of referring to a tangible object, abstract nouns can refer to a concept, quality or state.
• Although all abstract nouns are abstract words, there are also abstract words that are not nouns.

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Abstract Vocabulary Instruction to Solve Vocabulary Learning Challenges

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Abstract Vocabulary Instruction: If a Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words, How about Six?

Decades of research have identified multiple variables that have an impact on how hard or easy it is to learn and remember vocabulary words. Some of these factors include:

1) the length of the word (longer words often have more complex spelling) 2) the frequency of the word in the language (i.e., how often it is used in speech or in print) 3) the degree of abstractness of the word (e.g., “theory” vs. “car”)

Solving Vocabulary Learning Challenges

Teachers Are Not Alone.

For the last 50 years, academics have debated and discussed why they think abstract vocabulary is so much harder to learn, and exactly what our brains do to learn them. Concrete words like “kitten” tend to be quickly learned when the spoken word is paired with the physical perception of the kitten.

For example, from petting one, hearing it meow, or even just seeing one on TV or in a picture. Words like “freedom,” however, don’t have direct physical referents, so how do we learn them?  

What Is Dual Coding Theory?

Dual Coding Theory, put forth by Alan Paivio in the 1970s, and elaborated upon by Mark Sadoski, is the theory that explains why we learn and store information best when language is paired with nonverbal information like visuals, sounds, tactile information, etc. For decades, though, the pressure was on to prove that abstract words could also be learned in this manner. What single picture or experience could pair with the word “prominent,” for example? A frequent comment has been, you can’t teach an abstract word with a concrete picture. Teachers everywhere have seen the result when they try; students anchor the abstract idea of “prominent” onto a single picture of one example of prominence (e.g., something being taller than the surrounding structures) and a week later, the student is convinced that “prominent” simply means tall. 

What Is Semantic Reasoning?

In a recently published article by Mark Sadoski and our own Beth Lawrence, InferCabulary is highlighted as one such method that answers this decades-long question. The answer is, you can’t anchor an abstract idea with a single picture , but you can with six! Semantic Reasoning , the “secret sauce” in InferCabulary, drew Dr. Sadoski out of retirement to co-author this paper and engage in research on its effectiveness.

In Abstract Vocabulary Development: Embodied Theory and Practice , published in Educational Psychology Review, a top education journal, the case is made that oral language paired with multiple simultaneously presented visuals allows abstract words to be quickly and efficiently learned. Semantic reasoning for vocabulary learning has its theoretical underpinnings in Dual Coding Theory and supports the growing field of Embodied Cognition .  

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✔ Explore InferCabulary ! ✔ Attend a free 3-hour Science of Reading Vocabulary Workshop ! ✔ Read more about the Top 8 Vocabulary Instruction Best Practices

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Complex and Abstract Words

By Nick Wright

Prefer a simpler word whenever you can.

Simple words help you express your message clearly. Too many complex words are like hurdles in a race, barriers to understanding which slows readers down. Replacing complex words with simpler words whenever possible lets your readers concentrate on your ideas and information.

Using simple and familiar words wherever possible doesn’t insult your readers’ intelligence but emphasizes clarity rather than formality. After all, sometimes the message of the document itself is complex and you want to make sure readers act as you hope or intend.

You may need to use a more complex word to give a more precise meaning. You may also find some words, such as prohibit or require, are difficult to avoid because of your writing task and subject matter. For example, you may find it easier to keep to simpler words in a memo or letter than in a report or regulation.

However, use shorter, simpler words as the basis of your writing and save longer or complex words for when they are essential.

For more guidance, see our list of words to avoid and their simple alternatives .

Although many complex words are not difficult in themselves, they have a cumulative effect on the writing style and affect your tone. Usually, familiar plain language alternatives work much better. So, keep to simpler, familiar words whenever you can. Your message will be clearer and your tone will improve and be less formal.

Abstract words

The Federal Government draws on the skills of many professions, and they each contribute their own words to the government’s writing. Many of these words are abstract, conveying little to the general public—and even to other specialists in the government. Here are some examples.

• bespoke development software co-ordination of departmental output customer relationship management enterprise resource planning live operation management mentoring relationship network-centric enterprises object relational technology ongoing contractual relationships overall control environment proactive system-based solutions

These clusters throw together two, three or four nouns and an occasional adjective to form an abstract phrase. This is the worst jargon. Sometimes, a phrase such as collateral damage is a euphemism to gloss over reality or hide the truth or information. Watch out for such strings of adjectives and nouns. Using too many abstract terms makes your writing vague and your message unclear.

The more information you give your readers, the better. Go through your writing looking for abstract words or phrases. Turn them into specific, concrete information your readers can picture and understand. This helps focus your mind on presenting relevant information to readers.

Words such as aspect , concept , elements , facilities , inputs , operation , resources , situation , and variables are common in abstract writing.

Agencies that have created a system performance-based, customer-driven, results-oriented culture (i.e., changed the internal dialog/conversation to center around these dimensions), aligned their organizational processes to support this new culture, and have used IT as an enabler to do so.

Agencies are aligned around the concept of their vision and values that their “groups of influence” – customers, taxpayers, employees, opinion makers, and policy makers – accept and that these groups perceive a noticeable change in dialog/operations/services.

Agencies with a performance-based, customer-driven, results-oriented culture have changed the organization by using IT to help them manage staff and their work. They have taken their vision and values and explained their ideas to the most important people: customers, taxpayers, employees, opinion makers and policy makers. When these people notice a change in the Agency, the new culture has started to succeed.

Look at the following example and see how little information readers get from the words “facilities” and “system”:

Our facilities will improve our system performance.

Readers have no idea what will improve the performance, or indeed what will perform better. You can be more specific by replacing the word facilities with something specific that readers can picture.

When you write, you want your readers to know exactly what you mean. Specific words conjure up a picture in your readers’ minds and so convey a clearer message than abstract words. Abstract words sometimes creep into writing without adding anything to the meaning. Often, you can just delete the word or reword the sentence to avoid them. When writing becomes too abstract, readers have little idea of what the writer means. Here’s an example from a report:

A broad spectrum of recovery strategies is available to aid the recovery of key systems and business activities. This can range from:

• outsourcing recovery to a third party supplier; to
• doing without certain systems activities or systems for a short time; to
• using internal resources, such as space and systems located in other, remote offices.

Vague phrases such as a number of, in due course, and at a later date also contribute to abstract writing. Instead of this vagueness about time, be as specific as you can by giving a date, a specified time or at least use a single word such as soon or later.

As the writer, you control how specific you make your information. The more you move away from the abstract words and go towards the specific end of the list, the more information you give and the clearer your meaning becomes.

Make sure you choose the right amount of information to meet your aim in writing and your readers’ needs. Readers often complain there is not enough information or the information is irrelevant. The key is to pitch the content at the right level – that is, keeping the information specific without straying into irrelevant detail.

Abstract Vocabulary Development: Embodied Theory and Practice

• REVIEW ARTICLE
• Published: 15 August 2023
• Volume 35 , article number  84 , ( 2023 )

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• Mark Sadoski   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-0545-8796 1 &
• Beth Lawrence 2  

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This article reviews the embodied theoretical basis for the meaningful learning of abstract vocabulary and reviews selected educational programs that are theoretically based and have both success and promise for abstract vocabulary development. Abstract vocabulary is a mainstay of academic vocabulary, but its nature and educational development are not well understood. From the perspective of embodied cognition and neuropsychology, the meaning and development of abstract words are based on nonverbal sensory, sensorimotor, and affective evocations as elaborated by verbal contextual associations both abstract and concrete. Developmental psychometric studies suggest a mutual relationship between nonverbal reasoning and increasingly abstract vocabulary that is a basis of the developing intellect. Although abstract vocabulary is typically learned through exposure to rich oral language and wide reading, direct instruction is also vital for many students. Educational interventions consistent with this nonverbal-verbal embodied theoretical account have been shown to be effective in learning academic vocabulary in general and abstract vocabulary in particular. However, more research is needed in both theory and practice.

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Sadoski, M., Lawrence, B. Abstract Vocabulary Development: Embodied Theory and Practice. Educ Psychol Rev 35 , 84 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-023-09802-9

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• Embodied Cognition
• Abstract Language
• Vocabulary Acquisition
• Word Learning
• Vocabulary Instruction
• Dual Coding Theory
• Mutualism Theory
• Multimedia Learning

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