抽象

• Pinyin: chōu xiàng
• Hanzi breakdown: 抽 = 扌 (hand) + 由 (from) = to extract; 象 = pictograph of an elephant = image/form

Meaning

Abstract; not concrete or tangible; theoretical.

Used in philosophy, art, and general discourse to describe concepts that cannot be directly perceived. Opposite of 具体 (concrete). Common in academic writing and art criticism.

Examples

1. 这幅画太抽象了，我看不懂它想表达什么。 This painting is too abstract — I can't understand what it's trying to express.
2. 哲学家喜欢讨论一些非常抽象的概念。 Philosophers like to discuss very abstract concepts.
3. 你能把这个抽象的理论用具体例子解释一下吗？ Can you explain this abstract theory with concrete examples?

Usage Guide

Context: art, philosophy, academics, discussion

Tone: intellectual

Do Say

• 抽象艺术不是每个人都能欣赏的。(Not everyone can appreciate abstract art.)
• 你的想法太抽象了，能不能说得具体一点？(Your idea is too abstract — can you be more specific?)

Don't Say

• 这道菜很抽象 (Don't use 抽象 for food — use 特别 or describe the actual taste)

Origin & History

Compound of 抽 (to extract/draw out) and 象 (image/form). Literally 'extracted image' — removing concrete details to leave essence.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal