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

Kesha was styled in a custom miniskirt and bracelet made entirely of e.l.f.’s Jelly Pop primer tubes and lip oil respectively, designed by conceptual artist Gab Bois. —Essence, 28 July 2025

But the creator quickly gave up the act and revealed a conceptual bent to the channel. —Kieran Press-Reynolds, Pitchfork, 23 July 2025

The conceptual authorship had already been stripped and anonymized by an algorithm. —Remy Blumenfeld, HollywoodReporter, 22 July 2025

Rather than battling human nature head-on, the Back to the Present study reveals that with discipline and mindfulness, individuals can tangibly connect with their future selves—transforming retirement planning from conceptual to constructive. —Wes Moss, Forbes.com, 22 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