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 of conceptual

• theoretical
• 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

Where these collections once prioritized open-toed sandals and breezy silhouettes, more ostentatious and conceptual collections have instead followed suit. —Alexandra Hildreth, Vogue, 27 Apr. 2026

The Pre-Development Agreement includes a conceptual master plan for the redevelopment of the Lincolnwood Town Center, consisting of a large retail store with a footprint of about 150,000 – 175,000 square feet, an automobile dealership, and additional commercial and retail uses, the release said. —Pioneer Press, Chicago Tribune, 27 Apr. 2026

With that in mind, the growth committee — composed of 53 residents and staff — spent the previous eight months working to develop a conceptual proposal for how the district could meet future space needs — while stopping short of recommending a bond package. —Tanya Babbar, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Apr. 2026

But there’s nothing conceptual about the fact that Duchamp fever has struck Manhattan—and the market has taken notice. —Nate Freeman, Vanity Fair, 24 Apr. 2026

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