Meaning of Word
Absolute refers to something that is complete, total, or not limited by conditions or restrictions. It can also denote something that is independent or not dependent on anything else.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Absolute refers to something that is perfect or complete, without any restrictions or limitations.
- A concept or quality that is unchanging, definite, or unqualified.
- In philosophy, something that is independent of external conditions, often used in reference to ultimate reality or a supreme being.
- A term used in grammar to describe a noun phrase that is not tied to a specific grammatical structure.
- A numerical value or quantity that is not relative to other values, often used in contexts like measurements or quantities.
History and Origin
The word absolute comes from the Latin word absolutus, meaning “unrestricted” or “completed.” The term evolved from absolvere, which means “to set free” or “to complete.” It has been used in various philosophical, legal, and scientific contexts over the centuries to describe something that is not conditioned or dependent on anything else, often implying perfection or completeness.
Detailed Explanation
The term absolute is often used to describe something that is complete and unconditional, not subject to any limitations or external influences. For example, absolute truth refers to something that is universally true and does not change based on perspective. In everyday language, it can describe a situation or condition that is total or unqualified, such as an absolute ban or an absolute decision. In science, absolute can refer to measurements that are not relative, like absolute zero in thermodynamics, which is the lowest possible temperature.
In a philosophical sense, the absolute is something that exists independently of human experience, like the concept of God or the universe as an independent, self-contained entity. The use of absolute can also be applied in legal and formal contexts, such as an absolute right or authority, meaning one that cannot be challenged or limited.
Example Sentences
- She held absolute control over the decision-making process in the company.
- The scientist believed in the concept of absolute truth, not dependent on perspective.
- The absolute value of a number is its magnitude without regard to its sign.
- He was given absolute power to make decisions in an emergency.
- The law was passed with absolute authority, leaving no room for dispute.
- His dedication to his work was absolute, and he never wavered in his commitment.
- The absolute silence in the room was unsettling as everyone awaited the announcement.
- Absolute zero is the theoretical lowest temperature possible in the universe.
- She wanted absolute privacy, so she turned off her phone and closed the door.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Unconditional: Not subject to any conditions or exceptions, similar to something absolute.
- Complete: Fully finished or total, without any gaps or limitations.
- Total: Entire or complete, used to describe something that is fully realized or achieved.
- Definite: Clear and precise, not open to doubt or change, often used in the context of absolute certainty.
- Unqualified: Not limited or restricted by qualifications or conditions.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Perfect: Something that is free from flaws, often used in the context of being absolute or ideal.
- Absolute value: A mathematical concept referring to the magnitude of a number without regard to its sign.
- Autonomous: Independent or self-governing, similar to something absolute in its autonomy.
- Final: Concluding or ultimate, often referring to something unchangeable, similar to absolute.
- Unalterable: Something that cannot be changed, similar to the concept of absolute certainty or finality.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Absolute authority: The power to make decisions without being challenged.
- Absolute truth: The idea that certain truths are universal and unchanging.
- Absolute zero: The lowest possible temperature, at which all molecular motion ceases.
- Absolute independence: A state of being entirely self-sufficient, without reliance on others.
- Absolute monarch: A ruler who holds complete and unchecked power over a state or nation.
Antonyms
- Relative: Dependent on or in relation to something else, opposite of absolute.
- Conditional: Subject to specific requirements or conditions, unlike absolute.
- Inexact: Not precise or definite, the opposite of absolute.
- Uncertain: Lacking definite knowledge or conviction, opposite of absolute certainty.
- Limited: Restricted in scope, amount, or extent, unlike something absolute.