1. in a way that is theoretical or conceptual rather than concrete or practical
2. in a way that is difficult to understand because it deals with ideas rather than events

Examples

• The philosopher discussed justice abstractly, without reference to specific cases.
• She thought about the problem abstractly before considering practical solutions.
• The concept was explained too abstractly for the students to grasp.
• He approached mathematics abstractly, focusing on pure theory.
• The artist painted abstractly, using shapes and colors rather than realistic forms.
• When thinking abstractly about time, we can imagine it as a dimension.