Not concrete or physical, but existing only as an idea or concept. It refers to things that cannot be perceived directly with the senses.
example
Gerechtigkeit ist ein abstraktes Prinzip, das in Gesetzen konkretisiert wird.
Justice is an abstract principle that is made concrete in laws.
Usage tips
Context clue
You can easily recognize the meaning of 'abstrakt' (abstract) from the context. If people are talking about art, painting, or sculptures, the artistic style is meant. In discussions about ideas, feelings, or theories, it refers to the non-physical meaning.
EXAMPLE
Ihre Kunst ist sehr abstrakt, man erkennt keine konkreten Objekte.
Her art is very abstract; you can't recognize any concrete objects.
Register
The word 'abstrakt' (abstract) belongs to educated or academic language. It is often used in academic, intellectual, or artistic discussions.
EXAMPLE
In der Philosophie beschäftigen wir uns oft mit abstrakten Fragen.
In philosophy, we often deal with abstract questions.
Typical collocations
In its general meaning, 'abstrakt' (abstract) is often combined with nouns that describe concepts. Typical examples are 'abstrakter Begriff' (abstract concept), 'abstrakte Idee' (abstract idea), or 'abstraktes Denken' (abstract thinking).
EXAMPLE
Für viele Kinder ist die Zeit ein sehr abstrakter Begriff.
For many children, time is a very abstract concept.
Use in an art context
When it comes to art, 'abstrakt' (abstract) describes a style. Common combinations are 'abstrakte Kunst' (abstract art), 'abstrakte Malerei' (abstract painting), or 'ein abstraktes Gemälde' (an abstract painting).
EXAMPLE
Das Museum hat eine neue Ausstellung über abstrakte Kunst eröffnet.
The museum has opened a new exhibition on abstract art.
Compare with
antonym
abstrakt vs konkret
specific / concrete
'konkret' and 'abstrakt' are clear opposites here. 'konkret' means something that is tangible, real, or easy to imagine, for example a particular object or a clear example. 'abstrakt' more often means an idea or concept that you cannot directly see or touch. In texts and conversations, 'konkret' is more natural when you want to make something vivid. 'abstrakt' fits when something remains very theoretical or general.
abstrakt
Der Begriff Freiheit ist abstrakt und lässt sich nicht einfach anfassen.
The concept of freedom is abstract and cannot simply be touched.
konkret
Kannst du mir ein konkretes Beispiel für diese Regel geben?