OpenSynonym

ideational

/ˌaɪdiˈeɪʃənəl/

ADJECTIVE

1. Related to the formation of ideas

Pertaining to the formation, development, or expression of ideas and thoughts, particularly mental representations of objects or concepts that are not immediately present to the senses.

1.1. Conceptual and abstract thinking

Describes thoughts, concepts, or intellectual processes that exist primarily in the mind rather than as directly observable physical objects.

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Examples

  • The professor's lecture delved into the ideational foundations of philosophical thought.
  • The academic debate explored the ideational underpinnings of different economic theories.
  • The researcher examined the ideational framework behind the proposed model.

Related Words

1.2. Creative idea development and imagination

Describes processes or activities involving the generation, exploration, and development of new ideas, concepts, or imaginative solutions.

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Examples

  • The creative team engaged in an ideational process to conceptualize the next advertising campaign.
  • The workshop aimed to stimulate ideational thinking and generate novel solutions to complex problems.
  • The company's success was driven by a culture that valued continuous ideational contributions from all employees.

Related Words

1.3. Theoretical and speculative concepts

Describes ideas or propositions that are based on theory, assumptions, or speculation rather than established physical evidence or practical demonstration.

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Examples

  • The researchers discussed the ideational assumptions underlying the proposed theory.
  • The proposal remained at an ideational stage until its feasibility could be tested.

Related Words

  • hypothesis
  • conjecture
  • supposition
  • assumption
  • postulate
  • proposition
  • theorization