Philosophical
/ˌfɪləˈsɒfɪkəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsRelating to or characteristic of the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.
/ˌfɪləˈsɒfɪkəl/
Relating to or based on the study of philosophy.
The professor's lectures often delved into philosophical discussions about ethics.
💡 Simply: When something is philosophical, it's like it's about big, important questions like 'What is the meaning of life?' or 'What is right and wrong?' It's like thinking deeply about things, not just taking them at face value. For example, when you are pondering why you have to go to school, that can be a philosophical dilemma.
👶 For kids: Thinking and talking about big ideas, like what is real and why we are here.
More Examples
She adopted a philosophical approach to her problems, accepting them as part of life's journey.
The movie's script included several philosophical arguments about human nature.
His philosophical insights were highly valued by his peers.
How It's Used
"The student presented a philosophical argument about the nature of reality."
"The novel explores philosophical themes of existentialism and free will."
Accepting of circumstances; showing a calm and patient attitude towards problems and difficulties.
/ˌfɪləˈsɒfɪkəl/
Having or showing a calm attitude toward disappointments or difficulties.
Despite the business failing, he remained philosophical about the situation.
💡 Simply: If you're being philosophical, you're staying calm and understanding when things don't go as planned. You might say 'It's just the way things go,' and keep a level head. Imagine you miss the bus but instead of getting upset, you shrug it off. That's being philosophical.
👶 For kids: Being cool and calm when things go wrong.
More Examples
The elderly man had a philosophical approach to aging.
She responded to the criticism with a philosophical perspective, refusing to get angry.
How It's Used
"She remained philosophical about the setback, viewing it as a learning opportunity."
"After the loss, he adopted a more philosophical outlook on life, accepting its transient nature."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
philosophical inquiry
The act of asking questions and investigating the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence. This often involves rigorous reasoning and analysis.
"The professor encouraged students to engage in philosophical inquiry to understand the complexities of morality."
philosophical stance
A way of thinking about something or a position someone takes on a certain issue or idea.
"Her philosophical stance on the importance of individual liberty shaped her political beliefs."
From Late Latin *philosophicus*, from Greek *philosophikos* ('fond of knowledge'), from *philosophos* ('philosopher'), from *philos* ('loving') + *sophos* ('wise').
The term has been used for centuries to describe discussions about life, knowledge, and values.
Memory tip
Think of a 'philosopher' - someone who is philosophical.
Word Origin
"loving, fond of"