metaphysics

The part of philosophy that asks what exists and what reality is like.

• She studies metaphysics at university.
• The course covers basic questions in metaphysics.
• Does metaphysics help us understand the nature of time?

Common phrases: study metaphysics, a metaphysics course, modern metaphysics

A thinker's or group's basic ideas about what exists and how reality works.

• His metaphysics gives the mind a central role.
• We discussed the metaphysics of Aristotle.
• Their different metaphysics led them to different views of human freedom.

How to use it: the metaphysics of someone/something (They compared the metaphysics of two ancient philosophers.)

Similar words: worldview

Common phrases: kant's metaphysics, a coherent metaphysics, the metaphysics of being

The study of spirits and other things believed to exist beyond the physical world.

• Her interest in metaphysics began with stories about spirits.
• The shop sells books on metaphysics and reincarnation.
• He turned to metaphysics for answers about life after death.

Common phrases: books on metaphysics, spiritual metaphysics, explore metaphysics

The most basic ideas or rules behind something.

• Trust forms the metaphysics of their business.
• She questioned the metaphysics behind the club's rules.
• The book examines the metaphysics of artistic creation.

How to use it: the metaphysics of something (The essay explores the metaphysics of everyday work.)

Similar words: foundations, first principles

Common phrases: the metaphysics of art, underlying metaphysics