Notionaalinen

Notionaalinen is a term that describes something relating to or characteristic of a notion or idea, often in a philosophical or abstract sense. It suggests a quality of being conceptual rather than concrete or tangible. When something is described as notionaalinen, it implies that it exists primarily in the realm of thought, imagination, or theory.

This can apply to various fields. In philosophy, a notionaalinen concept might be an abstract principle like justice or truth, which are difficult to physically represent but are fundamental to human understanding. In art, a notionaalinen work might focus on conveying an idea or emotion through symbolism and abstraction rather than direct representation of reality. In everyday language, one might use "notionaalinen" to describe a plan or a goal that is still in its early, unformed stages, existing more as a possibility than a set course of action.

The opposite of notionaalinen would be something empirical, material, or concrete – something that can be directly observed, measured, or experienced through the senses. The term emphasizes the mental construction and the inherent subjectivity that often accompanies abstract ideas. It highlights the power of the mind to create and manipulate concepts that shape our perception of the world, even if these concepts lack physical form.