abstract words meaning

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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[ adjective ab- strakt , ab -strakt ; noun ab -strakt ; verb ab- strakt ab -strakt ]

an abstract idea.

expressing a quality or characteristic apart from any specific object or instance, as justice, poverty, and speed.

abstract science.

abstract speculations.

of or relating to the formal aspect of art, emphasizing lines, colors, generalized or geometrical forms, etc., especially with reference to their relationship to one another.
Often Abstract . pertaining to the nonrepresentational art styles of the 20th century.
a summary of a text, scientific article, document, speech, etc.; epitome .
something that concentrates in itself the essential qualities of anything more extensive or more general, or of several things; essence.
an idea or term considered apart from some material basis or object.
an abstract work of art.

verb (used with object)

to make an abstract of; summarize .
to draw or take away; remove .
to divert or draw away the attention of.

to abstract the notions of time, space, and matter.

having no reference to material objects or specific examples; not concrete
not applied or practical; theoretical
hard to understand; recondite; abstruse
denoting art characterized by geometric, formalized, or otherwise nonrepresentational qualities

an abstract machine

the word ``man'' does not name all men but the abstract idea of manhood

a condensed version of a piece of writing, speech, etc; summary
an abstract term or idea
an abstract painting, sculpture, etc
in the abstract without reference to specific circumstances or practical experience
to think of (a quality or concept) generally without reference to a specific example; regard theoretically
to form (a general idea) by abstraction
ˈæbstrækt also intr to summarize or epitomize
to remove or extract
euphemistic. to steal

Discover More

Other words from.

ab·stracter noun
ab·stractly adverb
abstract·ness noun
non·abstract adjective noun
non·abstract·ly adverb
non·abstract·ness noun
over·ab·stract verb (used with object) adjective
preab·stract adjective
super·ab·stract adjective
super·ab·stractly adverb
super·ab·stractness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of abstract 1

Idioms and Phrases

abstract away from , to omit from consideration.

beauty in the abstract.

Example Sentences

In a pursuit whose meaning and purpose is abstract at the best of times, that’s not nothing.

“Our models can validate thousands of unseen candidates in seconds,” the study’s authors wrote in the abstract to their paper, which appears in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

It also makes it more real and concrete, rather than abstract.

The same applies in fields of biology dealing with more abstract concepts of the individual — entities that emerge as distinct patterns within larger schemes of behavior or activity.

The Ising model represents one of the simplest places in this abstract “theory space,” and so serves as a proving ground for developing novel tools for exploring uncharted territory.

These matters are not mere threats to abstract constitutional principles.

Do you think that as we get older our thoughts shift to the more abstract, the music, than the definite, the lyrics?

To listeners, Adnan is a real human while Jay remains an abstract figure.

In the mindset of the Coexist camp, those abstract beliefs have become twisted things, wrapped up with hate.

“There will be flashbacks to that day, but I think it will be a reasonably abstract performance,” Berger said.

This work is now lost, and we know it only by the abstract given by Photius in the passage quoted.

If you are thinking of making an Abstract of a particular book, awaken the utmost interest in regard to it before you begin.

Any other work of which an Abstract is published will serve the student as well as the above.

Three things are required: To learn how to abstract; To make one, at least, such abstract; and To learn it when made.

He never made any attempt to learn the abstract science of war, and until stirred by danger his character seemed to slumber.

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of abstract in English

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abstract adjective ( GENERAL )

abstract Happiness, faith, and confidence are abstract qualities.
conceptual The introduction lays out a conceptual framework for the book.
notional There is a notional improvement in air quality that cannot be demonstrated.
theoretical Vitamin supplements can give a theoretical boost to health.
It is sometimes easier to illustrate an abstract concept by analogy with something concrete .
He is good at explaining quite complex , abstract ideas in a nice simple way.
Your idea is rather vague and abstract - could you explain it in a bit more detail , please ?
These early humans were clearly capable of abstract thought , and probably language too.
Some of these new theories are so abstract that they don't seem to relate to our everyday work at all.
abstraction
afterthought
anthropocentrism
anti-Darwinian
anti-Darwinism
exceptionalism
foundation stone
great minds think alike idiom
have a brainstorm
non-dogmatic
non-empirical
non-material
non-practical
social Darwinism
supersensible
the domino theory

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

abstract adjective ( ART )

anti-modern
anti-modernism
anti-modernist
anti-romantic
expressionism
expressionist
expressionistic
expressionistically
naturalistic
non-abstract
romanticism
screen printing

abstract noun [C] ( SHORT DOCUMENT )

brushstroke
catch-all phrase
encapsulation
executive summary
in short idiom
recapitulation
shorthand for something idiom
sum (something/someone) up
to cut a long story short idiom

abstract noun [C] ( ART )

autostereogram
graphic arts
graphic novel
screen print
There are several observations that might be abstracted from this example .
We abstracted the number of cases and deaths from the 2001–2019 annual reports .
She leaves it to the reader to collect and abstract insights from her text .
We abstract a general data structure from the list of data .
anti-reductionism
anti-reductionist
broad brush
enlarge on/upon something
expand on something
expansively
expansiveness
overgeneralization
overgeneralize
oversimplification
oversimplify
particularization
specification
specificity
split hairs idiom

abstract | American Dictionary

Abstract | business english, examples of abstract, translations of abstract.

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Word of the Day

troubleshoot

to discover why something does not work effectively and help to improve it

Searching out and tracking down: talking about finding or discovering things

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abstract (GENERAL)
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Synonyms of abstract

as in theoretic
as in impressionistic
as in summary
as in manifestation
as in to distract
as in to summarize
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Thesaurus Definition of abstract

(Entry 1 of 3)

Synonyms & Similar Words

theoretical
metaphysical
intellectual
speculative
hypothetical
transcendental
conjectural
incorporeal
insubstantial
impractical
transcendent
imperceptible
nonphysical
nonmaterial
unsubstantial

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

substantial
discernible
perceptible
appreciable
nonabstract
discernable
impressionistic
impressionist
nonrepresentational
nonobjective
nonfigurative
nonrealistic
expressionistic
expressionist
symbolistic
representational
naturalistic

Thesaurus Definition of abstract (Entry 2 of 3)

encapsulation
recapitulation
summing - up
summarization
run - through
abbreviation
simplification
abridgement
condensation
curtailment
streamlining
enlargement
amplification
manifestation
incarnation
personification
incorporation
instantiation
objectification
externalization
realization
personifier
concretization
personalization
exemplification
actualization
substantiation
reincarnation
quintessence

Thesaurus Definition of abstract (Entry 3 of 3)

concentrate
encapsulate
recapitulate
consolidate
essentialize
elaborate (on or upon)
enlarge (on or upon)

Thesaurus Entries Near abstract

Cite this entry.

“Abstract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/abstract. Accessed 16 May. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on abstract

Nglish: Translation of abstract for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of abstract for Arabic Speakers

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Definition of 'abstract'

abstract in British English

Abstract in american english, examples of 'abstract' in a sentence abstract, cobuild collocations abstract, trends of abstract.

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

By: Author English Study Online

Posted on Last updated: November 3, 2023

Sharing is caring!

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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Concrete and Abstract Words; Denotation and Connotation; Figurative Comparison
The Writing Process
Paragraphs and Essays
Unity and Coherence in Essays
Proving the Thesis/Critical Thinking
Standard English, Using a Dictionary, Using a Thesaurus
Bias and Discriminatory Language; Cliches; Repetitiveness; Wordiness
Active and Passive Voice; Point of View/Person

Concrete and Abstract Words

A concrete word is a word that refers to a specific, tangible item. Concrete words clearly identify and define. Abstract words are general and not specific.

Our society should primarily be concerned with raising children properly. The word society is not concrete since it is not tangible.

Parents should be primarily concerned with raising children properly. The word parents is concrete since it is tangible.

The need for clear reference is one of the problems with using second person you in writing. The reference is too general and not concrete.

Unclear : You should know what your children are doing.

This sentence is poorly constructed. I, as the reader, would be confused if I have no children. This sentence isn’t meant to refer to me. Here is more clear phrasing.

Corrected : Parents with children living at home should know what their children are doing.

Unclear: The air is bad today.

This sentence is very general. What air? What’s bad about it? Here are sentences that more specifically explain:

Corrected : The pollen level in the air is high today.

The air is thick with smoke from the nearby forest fire.

The traffic from the highway down the block causes a foul smell in the air.

Denotation and Connotation

Denotation is the dictionary meaning of a word. Connotation is what meanings are attached to the word.

House is a place where people live. Home is a place where people live. However, the meanings attached to home are very different.

Some words have positive or negative connotations. For example, would you rather be childlike or childish ? Childlike has a positive connotation while childish has a negative connotation.

Denotation : Small in proportion to height or length

Positive connotation : Slim, Trim, Svelte

Negative connotation : Skinny, Boney, Scrawny

Figurative Comparison

Literal comparisons use concrete and specific analysis based on the dictionary definitions. Figurative comparisons use references to different experiences to evoke images. Here are three sets of examples, each set using a literal and figurative comparison.

Rose petals look like thin, curved shavings of wood which are dyed red. This is a literal comparison.

Rose petals are as soft as a feather and as sweet as a perfume. This is a figurative comparison.

She was shy.

She was like a shrinking violet.

The road was cracked and full of debris.

The road looked as though a bomb has exploded on it.

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Writing an Abstract for Your Research Paper

Definition and Purpose of Abstracts

An abstract is a short summary of your (published or unpublished) research paper, usually about a paragraph (c. 6-7 sentences, 150-250 words) long. A well-written abstract serves multiple purposes:

an abstract lets readers get the gist or essence of your paper or article quickly, in order to decide whether to read the full paper;
an abstract prepares readers to follow the detailed information, analyses, and arguments in your full paper;
and, later, an abstract helps readers remember key points from your paper.

It’s also worth remembering that search engines and bibliographic databases use abstracts, as well as the title, to identify key terms for indexing your published paper. So what you include in your abstract and in your title are crucial for helping other researchers find your paper or article.

If you are writing an abstract for a course paper, your professor may give you specific guidelines for what to include and how to organize your abstract. Similarly, academic journals often have specific requirements for abstracts. So in addition to following the advice on this page, you should be sure to look for and follow any guidelines from the course or journal you’re writing for.

The Contents of an Abstract

Abstracts contain most of the following kinds of information in brief form. The body of your paper will, of course, develop and explain these ideas much more fully. As you will see in the samples below, the proportion of your abstract that you devote to each kind of information—and the sequence of that information—will vary, depending on the nature and genre of the paper that you are summarizing in your abstract. And in some cases, some of this information is implied, rather than stated explicitly. The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association , which is widely used in the social sciences, gives specific guidelines for what to include in the abstract for different kinds of papers—for empirical studies, literature reviews or meta-analyses, theoretical papers, methodological papers, and case studies.

Here are the typical kinds of information found in most abstracts:

the context or background information for your research; the general topic under study; the specific topic of your research
the central questions or statement of the problem your research addresses
what’s already known about this question, what previous research has done or shown
the main reason(s) , the exigency, the rationale , the goals for your research—Why is it important to address these questions? Are you, for example, examining a new topic? Why is that topic worth examining? Are you filling a gap in previous research? Applying new methods to take a fresh look at existing ideas or data? Resolving a dispute within the literature in your field? . . .
your research and/or analytical methods
your main findings , results , or arguments
the significance or implications of your findings or arguments.

Your abstract should be intelligible on its own, without a reader’s having to read your entire paper. And in an abstract, you usually do not cite references—most of your abstract will describe what you have studied in your research and what you have found and what you argue in your paper. In the body of your paper, you will cite the specific literature that informs your research.

When to Write Your Abstract

Although you might be tempted to write your abstract first because it will appear as the very first part of your paper, it’s a good idea to wait to write your abstract until after you’ve drafted your full paper, so that you know what you’re summarizing.

What follows are some sample abstracts in published papers or articles, all written by faculty at UW-Madison who come from a variety of disciplines. We have annotated these samples to help you see the work that these authors are doing within their abstracts.

Choosing Verb Tenses within Your Abstract

The social science sample (Sample 1) below uses the present tense to describe general facts and interpretations that have been and are currently true, including the prevailing explanation for the social phenomenon under study. That abstract also uses the present tense to describe the methods, the findings, the arguments, and the implications of the findings from their new research study. The authors use the past tense to describe previous research.

The humanities sample (Sample 2) below uses the past tense to describe completed events in the past (the texts created in the pulp fiction industry in the 1970s and 80s) and uses the present tense to describe what is happening in those texts, to explain the significance or meaning of those texts, and to describe the arguments presented in the article.

The science samples (Samples 3 and 4) below use the past tense to describe what previous research studies have done and the research the authors have conducted, the methods they have followed, and what they have found. In their rationale or justification for their research (what remains to be done), they use the present tense. They also use the present tense to introduce their study (in Sample 3, “Here we report . . .”) and to explain the significance of their study (In Sample 3, This reprogramming . . . “provides a scalable cell source for. . .”).

Sample Abstract 1

From the social sciences.

Reporting new findings about the reasons for increasing economic homogamy among spouses

Gonalons-Pons, Pilar, and Christine R. Schwartz. “Trends in Economic Homogamy: Changes in Assortative Mating or the Division of Labor in Marriage?” Demography , vol. 54, no. 3, 2017, pp. 985-1005.

“The growing economic resemblance of spouses has contributed to rising inequality by increasing the number of couples in which there are two high- or two low-earning partners. [Annotation for the previous sentence: The first sentence introduces the topic under study (the “economic resemblance of spouses”). This sentence also implies the question underlying this research study: what are the various causes—and the interrelationships among them—for this trend?] The dominant explanation for this trend is increased assortative mating. Previous research has primarily relied on cross-sectional data and thus has been unable to disentangle changes in assortative mating from changes in the division of spouses’ paid labor—a potentially key mechanism given the dramatic rise in wives’ labor supply. [Annotation for the previous two sentences: These next two sentences explain what previous research has demonstrated. By pointing out the limitations in the methods that were used in previous studies, they also provide a rationale for new research.] We use data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) to decompose the increase in the correlation between spouses’ earnings and its contribution to inequality between 1970 and 2013 into parts due to (a) changes in assortative mating, and (b) changes in the division of paid labor. [Annotation for the previous sentence: The data, research and analytical methods used in this new study.] Contrary to what has often been assumed, the rise of economic homogamy and its contribution to inequality is largely attributable to changes in the division of paid labor rather than changes in sorting on earnings or earnings potential. Our findings indicate that the rise of economic homogamy cannot be explained by hypotheses centered on meeting and matching opportunities, and they show where in this process inequality is generated and where it is not.” (p. 985) [Annotation for the previous two sentences: The major findings from and implications and significance of this study.]

Sample Abstract 2

From the humanities.

Analyzing underground pulp fiction publications in Tanzania, this article makes an argument about the cultural significance of those publications

Emily Callaci. “Street Textuality: Socialism, Masculinity, and Urban Belonging in Tanzania’s Pulp Fiction Publishing Industry, 1975-1985.” Comparative Studies in Society and History , vol. 59, no. 1, 2017, pp. 183-210.

“From the mid-1970s through the mid-1980s, a network of young urban migrant men created an underground pulp fiction publishing industry in the city of Dar es Salaam. [Annotation for the previous sentence: The first sentence introduces the context for this research and announces the topic under study.] As texts that were produced in the underground economy of a city whose trajectory was increasingly charted outside of formalized planning and investment, these novellas reveal more than their narrative content alone. These texts were active components in the urban social worlds of the young men who produced them. They reveal a mode of urbanism otherwise obscured by narratives of decolonization, in which urban belonging was constituted less by national citizenship than by the construction of social networks, economic connections, and the crafting of reputations. This article argues that pulp fiction novellas of socialist era Dar es Salaam are artifacts of emergent forms of male sociability and mobility. In printing fictional stories about urban life on pilfered paper and ink, and distributing their texts through informal channels, these writers not only described urban communities, reputations, and networks, but also actually created them.” (p. 210) [Annotation for the previous sentences: The remaining sentences in this abstract interweave other essential information for an abstract for this article. The implied research questions: What do these texts mean? What is their historical and cultural significance, produced at this time, in this location, by these authors? The argument and the significance of this analysis in microcosm: these texts “reveal a mode or urbanism otherwise obscured . . .”; and “This article argues that pulp fiction novellas. . . .” This section also implies what previous historical research has obscured. And through the details in its argumentative claims, this section of the abstract implies the kinds of methods the author has used to interpret the novellas and the concepts under study (e.g., male sociability and mobility, urban communities, reputations, network. . . ).]

Sample Abstract/Summary 3

From the sciences.

Reporting a new method for reprogramming adult mouse fibroblasts into induced cardiac progenitor cells

Lalit, Pratik A., Max R. Salick, Daryl O. Nelson, Jayne M. Squirrell, Christina M. Shafer, Neel G. Patel, Imaan Saeed, Eric G. Schmuck, Yogananda S. Markandeya, Rachel Wong, Martin R. Lea, Kevin W. Eliceiri, Timothy A. Hacker, Wendy C. Crone, Michael Kyba, Daniel J. Garry, Ron Stewart, James A. Thomson, Karen M. Downs, Gary E. Lyons, and Timothy J. Kamp. “Lineage Reprogramming of Fibroblasts into Proliferative Induced Cardiac Progenitor Cells by Defined Factors.” Cell Stem Cell , vol. 18, 2016, pp. 354-367.

“Several studies have reported reprogramming of fibroblasts into induced cardiomyocytes; however, reprogramming into proliferative induced cardiac progenitor cells (iCPCs) remains to be accomplished. [Annotation for the previous sentence: The first sentence announces the topic under study, summarizes what’s already known or been accomplished in previous research, and signals the rationale and goals are for the new research and the problem that the new research solves: How can researchers reprogram fibroblasts into iCPCs?] Here we report that a combination of 11 or 5 cardiac factors along with canonical Wnt and JAK/STAT signaling reprogrammed adult mouse cardiac, lung, and tail tip fibroblasts into iCPCs. The iCPCs were cardiac mesoderm-restricted progenitors that could be expanded extensively while maintaining multipo-tency to differentiate into cardiomyocytes, smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells in vitro. Moreover, iCPCs injected into the cardiac crescent of mouse embryos differentiated into cardiomyocytes. iCPCs transplanted into the post-myocardial infarction mouse heart improved survival and differentiated into cardiomyocytes, smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells. [Annotation for the previous four sentences: The methods the researchers developed to achieve their goal and a description of the results.] Lineage reprogramming of adult somatic cells into iCPCs provides a scalable cell source for drug discovery, disease modeling, and cardiac regenerative therapy.” (p. 354) [Annotation for the previous sentence: The significance or implications—for drug discovery, disease modeling, and therapy—of this reprogramming of adult somatic cells into iCPCs.]

Sample Abstract 4, a Structured Abstract

Reporting results about the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy in managing acute bacterial sinusitis, from a rigorously controlled study

Note: This journal requires authors to organize their abstract into four specific sections, with strict word limits. Because the headings for this structured abstract are self-explanatory, we have chosen not to add annotations to this sample abstract.

Wald, Ellen R., David Nash, and Jens Eickhoff. “Effectiveness of Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium in the Treatment of Acute Bacterial Sinusitis in Children.” Pediatrics , vol. 124, no. 1, 2009, pp. 9-15.

“OBJECTIVE: The role of antibiotic therapy in managing acute bacterial sinusitis (ABS) in children is controversial. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of high-dose amoxicillin/potassium clavulanate in the treatment of children diagnosed with ABS.

METHODS : This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Children 1 to 10 years of age with a clinical presentation compatible with ABS were eligible for participation. Patients were stratified according to age (<6 or ≥6 years) and clinical severity and randomly assigned to receive either amoxicillin (90 mg/kg) with potassium clavulanate (6.4 mg/kg) or placebo. A symptom survey was performed on days 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 20, and 30. Patients were examined on day 14. Children’s conditions were rated as cured, improved, or failed according to scoring rules.

RESULTS: Two thousand one hundred thirty-five children with respiratory complaints were screened for enrollment; 139 (6.5%) had ABS. Fifty-eight patients were enrolled, and 56 were randomly assigned. The mean age was 6630 months. Fifty (89%) patients presented with persistent symptoms, and 6 (11%) presented with nonpersistent symptoms. In 24 (43%) children, the illness was classified as mild, whereas in the remaining 32 (57%) children it was severe. Of the 28 children who received the antibiotic, 14 (50%) were cured, 4 (14%) were improved, 4(14%) experienced treatment failure, and 6 (21%) withdrew. Of the 28children who received placebo, 4 (14%) were cured, 5 (18%) improved, and 19 (68%) experienced treatment failure. Children receiving the antibiotic were more likely to be cured (50% vs 14%) and less likely to have treatment failure (14% vs 68%) than children receiving the placebo.

CONCLUSIONS : ABS is a common complication of viral upper respiratory infections. Amoxicillin/potassium clavulanate results in significantly more cures and fewer failures than placebo, according to parental report of time to resolution.” (9)

Some Excellent Advice about Writing Abstracts for Basic Science Research Papers, by Professor Adriano Aguzzi from the Institute of Neuropathology at the University of Zurich:

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adjective as in conceptual, theoretical

Strongest matches

abstruse , hypothetical , philosophical , unreal

Strong matches

complex , deep , ideal , intellectual

Weak matches

indefinite , nonconcrete , recondite , transcendent , transcendental

noun as in short document prepared from a longer one

abridgment , brief , compendium , condensation , conspectus , digest , outline , summary , synopsis

précis , résumé

verb as in take away from

detach , disconnect , disengage , dissociate , extract , isolate , part , remove , separate , steal , uncouple , withdraw

verb as in prepare short document from longer one

abbreviate , abridge , condense , digest , outline , review , shorten , summarize

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Example sentences.