platonism: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Academic, Literary, Philosophical
Quick answer
What does “platonism” mean?
A philosophy or worldview based on the ideas of the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, emphasising the existence of abstract, eternal Forms or Ideas that constitute true reality, which the material world merely imitates imperfectly.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A philosophy or worldview based on the ideas of the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, emphasising the existence of abstract, eternal Forms or Ideas that constitute true reality, which the material world merely imitates imperfectly.
Any philosophical position that prioritises abstract, ideal, or spiritual concepts over concrete, material, or practical realities. In a literary or artistic context, it can denote an idealised view of love or beauty, often detached from physical or carnal aspects.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The term belongs to the international academic lexicon.
Connotations
Neutral to positive within academic philosophy; can be slightly pejorative in general discourse, implying impractical idealism or unworldliness.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both varieties, confined to specialised discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “platonism” in a Sentence
[Subject] embraces/rejects/advocates Platonism.Platonism in [field, e.g., mathematics/ethics].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “platonism” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- His approach was decidedly Platonist in its focus on ideal forms.
American English
- Her Platonist worldview made her skeptical of purely material explanations.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Core term in philosophy, history of ideas, theology, and literary theory.
Everyday
Extremely rare; if used, often misapplied to mean 'platonic love' (non-romantic friendship).
Technical
Used in specialised philosophical debates (e.g., 'mathematical Platonism' asserts numbers exist independently of minds).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “platonism”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “platonism”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “platonism”
- Using 'Platonism' as a synonym for 'platonic relationship'.
- Misspelling as 'Platonnism' or 'Platonisim'.
- Using it as a countable noun (e.g., 'a Platonism').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Platonism refers to the philosophy of Plato and its direct interpretation. Neoplatonism is a later, more mystical development (3rd century AD onwards) associated with Plotinus, which incorporated other philosophical and religious ideas.
Yes, in a loose, non-technical sense. Calling someone 'Platonist' might imply they are idealistic, focused on abstract principles, or somewhat detached from practical concerns.
In philosophy, a major opposite is Aristotelianism (empirical, focused on the particulars of the material world) or Nominalism (which denies the independent existence of universal abstractions).
Not originally, though it has deeply influenced Christian, Islamic, and Jewish theology. Some later forms, like Neoplatonism, took on a more religious character.
A philosophy or worldview based on the ideas of the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, emphasising the existence of abstract, eternal Forms or Ideas that constitute true reality, which the material world merely imitates imperfectly.
Platonism is usually academic, literary, philosophical in register.
Platonism: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpleɪtənɪz(ə)m/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpleɪtəˌnɪzəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of PLATOnism: Plato's central IDEA-lism (focus on ideal Forms).
Conceptual Metaphor
REALITY IS AN IMPERFECT SHADOW (derived from Plato's Allegory of the Cave).
Practice
Quiz
In a non-philosophical context, what is 'Platonism' most commonly confused with?