Physical Meaning and Definition
Physical
Pronunciation
/ˈfɪzɪkəl/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A physical entity is a tangible object or substance that occupies space and has a material existence, as opposed to abstract or intangible concepts.
Examples
1. “The physical object on the table is fragile and requires careful handling.”
2. “The doctor examined the patient’s physical condition and prescribed medication.”
Synonyms
1. Material
2. Tangible
3. Concrete
Antonyms
1. Abstract
2. Intangible
3. Ethereal
Additional Information
The word “physical” comes from the ancient Greek word “phusikos,” meaning “natural” or “relating to nature.” This word is derived from the Greek term “physis,” which means ” nature” or “origin.” The term “physical” has evolved over time to encompass a broad range of concepts, from the study of the natural world to the tangible properties of objects and substances.
Usage Notes
The term “physical” is commonly used in various contexts, including science, philosophy, and everyday language. In scientific contexts, “physical” is often used to describe the properties and behavior of physical entities. In philosophy, “physical” is used to distinguish between the physical world and the mental or spiritual realm. In everyday language, “physical” is used to describe something that can be perceived through the senses.
Cultural References
The concept of physicality has been explored in various cultural and artistic works, including literature, film, and music. In literature, authors such as Plato and Aristotle have written extensively on the nature of physical reality. In film, the concept of physicality is often explored in the context of science fiction and speculative fiction. In music, the concept of physicality is sometimes used to describe the relationship between sound and the physical world.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Think outside the box” (to think creatively and physically)
2. “The physicality of the situation” (the tangible aspects of a situation)
Collocations
1. “Physical activity”
2. “Physical education”
3. “Physical therapy”
Frequency of Use
The word “physical” is a common term in everyday language, and its usage can be observed in various contexts, including science, philosophy, and everyday conversation. According to the Corpus of Contemporary American English, the word “physical” is used in approximately 1.5% of all written texts, making it a moderate-frequency word.
Common Misspellings
1. Physicle
2. Physikal
3. Fizikal