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Absolute Definition and meaning (synonyms & antonyms)

Absolute

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The word “absolute” is a versatile term in the English language, used to describe something that is total, complete, or not dependent on anything else. It can function as an adjective or a noun, and it is commonly used in various fields such as philosophy, mathematics, science, and everyday language. Below is a detailed explanation of its meanings, definitions, and usage.

Definition of “Absolute”

  1. As an Adjective:
    • Meaning 1: Complete, total, or without restriction.
      • Example: She has absolute trust in her team.
    • Meaning 2: Not relative or comparative; existing independently.
      • Example: The laws of physics are often considered absolute.
    • Meaning 3: Free from imperfection; perfect or pure.
      • Example: The sculpture is an absolute masterpiece.
    • Meaning 4: Not subject to any limitation or condition.
      • Example: The king once held absolute power over his kingdom.
  2. As a Noun:
    • Meaning 1: A concept or principle regarded as universally valid or definitive.
      • Example: In philosophy, the “Absolute” refers to an ultimate reality.
    • Meaning 2: Something that is perfect, complete, or not dependent on anything else.
      • Example: Justice can sometimes feel like an unattainable absolute.

“Absolute” Word Meaning

1. Complete or Total (Adjective)

  • Refers to something that is entire, unqualified, or not partial.
    • Example: The decision was made with absolute certainty.
    • Example: He has absolute freedom to make his own choices.

2. Independent or Non-Relative (Adjective)

  • Describes something that exists independently, without being compared or related to other factors.
    • Example: Absolute temperature scales like Kelvin are used in scientific measurements.

3. Perfection or Purity (Adjective)

  • Refers to something in its purest or most perfect form.
    • Example: The absolute silence of the forest was calming.

4. Unlimited Authority or Power (Adjective)

  • Indicates complete control or power that is not restricted by laws or conditions.
    • Example: Historically, monarchs often ruled with absolute authority.

5. Philosophical or Universal Concept (Noun)

  • In philosophical or metaphysical contexts, “Absolute” often refers to an ultimate reality or truth that transcends the material world.
    • Example: For many philosophers, the Absolute represents the ultimate, unchanging reality.

Synonyms for “Absolute”

Depending on the context, synonyms include:

  • Complete
  • Total
  • Perfect
  • Pure
  • Supreme
  • Unconditional
  • Definite

Antonyms for “Absolute”

  • Partial
  • Relative
  • Limited
  • Conditional
  • Imperfect

Examples of “Absolute” in Sentences

  1. As an Adjective (Complete or Total):
    • She has absolute control over the project.
    • The team achieved absolute victory in the championship.
  2. As an Adjective (Independent or Non-Relative):
    • The absolute value of -5 is 5.
    • In a vacuum, absolute zero is the lowest possible temperature.
  3. As an Adjective (Perfection or Purity):
    • The painting was an absolute work of art.
    • He enjoyed the absolute peace of the secluded beach.
  4. As a Noun (Philosophical Concept):
    • Many philosophers have debated the nature of the Absolute.
    • Some argue that truth is not relative but an absolute.

Common Phrases and Idioms Using “Absolute”

  1. Absolute zero:
    • Meaning: The lowest possible temperature at which all molecular motion stops, defined as 0 Kelvin (-273.15°C or -459.67°F).
      • Example: Absolute zero is a fundamental concept in thermodynamics.
  2. Absolute power:
    • Meaning: Complete and unrestricted control or authority.
      • Example: The dictator exercised absolute power over the nation.
  3. Absolute truth:
    • Meaning: A fact or reality that is universally valid and unchanging.
      • Example: Some philosophers believe in the existence of absolute truths.
  4. Absolute silence:
    • Meaning: Complete and total quietness.
      • Example: The room fell into absolute silence after the announcement.
  5. Absolute certainty:
    • Meaning: Total assurance without any doubt.
      • Example: He spoke with absolute certainty about his findings.

Differences Between “Absolute” and Related Words

  1. Absolute vs. Relative:
    • Absolute refers to something that exists independently or universally, while relative depends on comparisons or relationships with other things.
      • Example (Absolute): The speed of light is an absolute constant in physics.
      • Example (Relative): The price of goods is relative to demand and supply.
  2. Absolute vs. Complete:
    • Both can mean “total,” but absolute often implies something unchanging, perfect, or independent, while complete simply means “entire” or “finished.”
      • Example (Absolute): Absolute freedom is rare in any society.
      • Example (Complete): The project is now complete.
  3. Absolute vs. Perfect:
    • Absolute suggests something total or unqualified, while perfect emphasizes flawlessness.
      • Example (Absolute): The judge has absolute authority in this matter.
      • Example (Perfect): Her performance was perfect in every way.

Applications of “Absolute” in Various Contexts

  1. Science:
    • Refers to definitive, measurable, or independent values, such as absolute zero or absolute pressure.
  2. Philosophy:
    • Represents ultimate reality or universal truths. Philosophers like Hegel and Spinoza have explored the concept of the Absolute as the ultimate existence or being.
  3. Mathematics:
    • Refers to absolute values (e.g., |-5| = 5), which measure the distance of a number from zero on a number line.
  4. Politics and Governance:
    • Describes unlimited power, such as in the term absolute monarchy, where a ruler has unrestricted authority.
  5. Everyday Language:
    • Used to emphasize certainty or completeness, such as absolute disaster, absolute joy, or absolute truth.

Final words

The word “absolute” is a powerful term that conveys totality, independence, and perfection. Whether describing scientific concepts, philosophical principles, or everyday situations, it adds clarity and emphasis to communication. Its versatility makes it a vital word for both formal and informal use, enabling precision in expressing ideas about completeness, certainty, and universality.

Relative words of ‘A’

S.NoWords
1A
2Able
3Ability
4About
5Above
6Absence
7Abroad
8Absolute
9Absent
10Abstract
11Abuse
12Angry
13Access
14Annoy
15Acceptable
16Acceptance
17Accede
18Accept
19Abusive
20Academic
21Approve
Relative words of “A”