© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

philosophical

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌfɪləˈsɒfɪkəl/

KK: /fɪˈlɑsəˌfɪkəl/

adjective
Definition

Relating to the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and the nature of reality.


Example

She often engages in philosophical discussions about the meaning of life.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever had a really philosophical conversation late at night?
Sloth B
Yeah, those are the best! You start to think about life differently.
Sloth A
Exactly! It’s amazing how deep you can go when it’s quiet.
Sloth B
For sure, I love exploring those philosophical ideas with friends.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
theoretical
reflective
metaphysical
Antonyms
practical
unreflective
ignorant
Root Explanation

Philosophical → It is formed from "philosophia" (from Greek "philosophia", meaning love of wisdom) and the suffix "-ical" (meaning pertaining to). The word "philosophical" refers to matters pertaining to the love of wisdom or the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics.

Memory Tip

Think of 'philosophia' meaning 'love of wisdom' to remember that 'philosophical' relates to the study and pursuit of wisdom.

Visually Confused Words
prophilosophical
nonphilosophical
unphilosophically
semiphilosophical
antiphilosophical
unphilosophic
unphilosophicalness
pseudophilosophical
Is this page helpful?