conceptual

adjective

con·​cep·​tu·​al kən-ˈsep-chə-wəl 

-chü-əl,

kän-,

-chəl,

-shwəl

: of, relating to, or consisting of concepts

conceptual thinking

the project's conceptual and technical hurdles

conceptual designs

conceptuality

kən-ˌsep-chə-ˈwa-lə-tē 

-shə-;

-chü-ˈa-

-shü-

noun

conceptually adverb

Synonyms

• theoretical
• theoretic
• metaphysical
• abstract

Examples of conceptual in a Sentence

The plans have both conceptual and practical difficulties.

conceptual thinking is often the most demanding kind of mental activity

Recent Examples on the Web

The organization will be using the conceptual designs as opportunities to share with developers, financers, and others who may be interested in contributing. —Sofia Joseph, jsonline.com, 18 July 2025

Documents submitted by Gomez Construction to the city say its efforts will be based on the conceptual design unanimously recommended in February by the city’s Pulse Memorial Advisory Committee, which is made up of Pulse survivors, victims’ families and community members. —Silas Morgan, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 July 2025

The conceptual framework dictates that releases from Lakes Powell and Mead would be a percentage of a rolling three-year average of the river’s natural flow. —Elise Schmelzer, Denver Post, 5 July 2025

Some of Cincinnati's top design firms, along with individuals, sent in detailed conceptual plans and pitches with their backgrounds and experience. —Sydney Franklin, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin conceptualis of thought, from Late Latin conceptus act of conceiving, thought, from Latin concipere — see concept entry 1

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing conceptual

• conceptual art

Medical Definition

conceptual

adjective

con·​cep·​tu·​al kən-ˈsep-chə(-wə)l, kän-, -ˈsepsh-wəl 

: of, relating to, or consisting of concepts

conceptually adverb