Definition

The process of treating something abstract as if it were a concrete reality or substance.

Example

The hypostatization of concepts can lead to misunderstandings in philosophical discussions.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term hypostatization?

No, I haven't. What does it mean?

It's the act of treating something abstract as if it were concrete.

That sounds interesting! I guess we do that a lot without realizing it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypostatization → It is formed from "hypo-" (meaning under or beneath) and "stasis" (from Greek "stasis", meaning standing or position) and the suffix "-ization" (meaning the process of making or becoming). The word refers to the process of making something abstract into a concrete reality or existence, as if it were standing under a specific form.

Memory Tip

Think of something being made 'concrete' or 'real' ('hypostatization') from an 'underlying' ('hypo-') concept that is 'standing' ('stasis').

Visually Confused Words