Abstract

Abstract

Synonyms
Definition

When we talk about abstract as a noun, it refers to a summary or brief description of a larger work or concept. In academic settings, an abstract is commonly used to give readers a quick overview of a research paper, thesis, article, or presentation without going into all the details. It serves as a snapshot of the main points and findings, helping readers decide if they want to read the full work.

An abstract typically includes key elements such as the purpose of the work, the methodology used, the results or findings, and the main conclusions. It’s like a condensed version of the entire piece, providing a glimpse into what the reader can expect. For example, in scientific research, an abstract is crucial because it allows other researchers to understand the study quickly and determine if it’s relevant to their own work. It’s like a miniaturized version of the full research paper, giving a glimpse of the study’s significance and outcomes.

In the world of art, an abstract can also refer to a brief explanation or interpretation of a piece of abstract art. Artists often provide abstracts to help viewers understand the inspiration, techniques, or emotions behind their work.

Example sentences
The scientist submitted an abstract of her research paper to the conference organizers.
The abstract of the book provided a glimpse into the author’s main arguments and conclusions.
Artists often include an abstract with their paintings to give viewers insight into their creative process.
The abstract of the thesis outlined the key research questions and methodology.
When reading academic articles, I always start by skimming the abstract to see if it’s relevant to my research.