in the abstract
idiom
: without referring to a specific person, object, or event : in a general way
thinking about freedom in the abstract
Examples of in the abstract in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The song is interesting in the abstract, told through the perspective of Tyler and said mystery woman, contemplating whether to keep the baby.
—
Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 30 Oct. 2024
Because that’s what Harlan was in the abstract, in his prime and after.
—Jason Sheehan, Rolling Stone, 1 Oct. 2024
But talking about music in the abstract can, in the words of composer Bear McCreary, be a little bit like dancing about architecture.
—Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 4 Oct. 2024
While the concept is often spoken of in the abstract, the concrete evolution of the sourcing landscape is never more evident than in conversations with manufacturers.
—Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 4 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for in the abstract 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 30 Oct. 2024
Because that’s what Harlan was in the abstract, in his prime and after.
—Jason Sheehan, Rolling Stone, 1 Oct. 2024
But talking about music in the abstract can, in the words of composer Bear McCreary, be a little bit like dancing about architecture.
—Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 4 Oct. 2024
While the concept is often spoken of in the abstract, the concrete evolution of the sourcing landscape is never more evident than in conversations with manufacturers.
—Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 4 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for in the abstract
Dictionary Entries Near in the abstract
Cite this Entry
“In the abstract.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20the%20abstract. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share