What does metaphysically mean?
Metaphysically means in relation to metaphysics, the branch of philosophy concerned with fundamental questions about existence, reality, identity, causation, and the nature of being. It is also used figuratively when someone treats an issue as lying beyond practical, empirical, or ordinary physical considerations. For example, two explanations of a phenomenon might be scientifically equivalent but metaphysically different because they assume different accounts of what reality ultimately consists of. The adverb is more common in philosophical, theological, legal, and academic contexts than in everyday speech. Its use often signals that an argument is addressing first principles rather than immediate consequences. Although it can sound abstract, the word is especially useful for distinguishing questions about observable facts from questions about the fundamental character of the world.
adverbIn a metaphysical manner; with reference to questions about existence, reality, identity, causation, or the nature of being. It can also mean figuratively, beyond physical or practical considerations.
- With reference to metaphysics or fundamental questions about reality and existence.
- In a figurative, abstract, or beyond-the-physical sense.
"The question is metaphysically challenging, even if it seems simple in ordinary conversation."
"The two questions are related empirically but distinct metaphysically."
"Her argument is compelling practically, but metaphysically it rests on an unproved assumption."
When a discussion becomes metaphysically complex, it has moved beyond everyday facts toward questions about what reality fundamentally is.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does metaphysically come from?
The word comes from Greek meta, meaning “after” or “beyond,” and physikē, relating to nature or natural science. The Greek expression translated as “the things after natural science” was taken into Latin as metaphysica and later developed into the English noun metaphysics. The adjective metaphysical and the adverb metaphysically were formed later from this English noun.
Related word forms
How metaphysically is actually used
This is a formal or intellectual adverb. In everyday use, it often signals that a discussion is concerned with abstract principles, philosophical foundations, or matters that cannot be settled by observation alone. It should not be used merely to make a statement sound more learned.
Easily confused with metaphysically
“Metaphysic” is usually a noun referring to metaphysical theory or a system of metaphysics, whereas “metaphysically” is an adverb describing an action, argument, or perspective.