conceptually
Meaning
in a way that relates to or is based on ideas or principles rather than specific examples or physical objects
Structure
Usage
the two theories are similar conceptually, though their applications differ.
she explained the plan conceptually before diving into the technical details.
the artist works conceptually, focusing on the idea behind the artwork rather than its aesthetic form.
Etymology
the adverb "conceptually" is built upon the noun "concept," which originates from the latin past participle conceptus, meaning "a thing conceived." this, in turn, derives from the verb concipere ("to take in, conceive"), a compound of com- ("together") and capere ("to take"). the adjectival suffix "-al" was attached to form "conceptual," meaning "relating to ideas." finally, the old english adverbial suffix "-ly" was appended, a common grammaticalization in english to convert adjectives into adverbs. thus, the word's evolution traces a path from the literal act of mental conception in latin to the modern abstract sense of considering something in terms of general ideas or principles.
Analysis
- concept: from latin conceptus (a thing conceived, idea), from concipere (to take in, conceive). functions as the core noun root. - u: a latin-derived connecting vowel used for euphony in forming derivatives. - al: a suffix of latin origin (-alis) forming adjectives meaning "of, relating to, or characterized by". - ly: a suffix of old english origin (-lice) forming adverbs from adjectives, meaning "in a specified manner".