B1 • Lesson 26
Vocabulary and reading to prepare for your lesson
Click each word to see its meaning and an example.
Not related to concrete facts or physical things; existing as an idea.
"Freedom is an abstract concept, but it's important to everyone."
A general principle or abstract idea; a thought.
"The concept of sustainability includes environmental protection and social responsibility."
To explain or show something using examples or pictures.
"Let me illustrate this concept with a practical example from daily life."
To use something in a practical situation; to put into practice.
"We can apply this theory to many different situations in the real world."
Real and able to be touched or physically felt; concrete.
"The benefits of the program are tangible—we can see measurable improvements."
The fundamental idea or basic rule that supports something.
"The underlying principle of good design is simplicity and functionality."
Used to explain an abstract idea in simpler or different terms.
"The concept of resilience is important. In other words, it means bouncing back from difficulty."
Used to introduce an example that clarifies an abstract concept.
"To illustrate this point, consider how water takes the shape of its container."
Used to give a simple comparison or metaphor for an abstract idea.
"Think of the brain as a computer—it processes information and stores memories."
Used to express an abstract idea in a qualified or hedged way.
"You could say that success is partly about luck and partly about hard work."
Used to clarify the main point you're trying to make about an abstract concept.
"What I'm getting at is that technology changes society in both positive and negative ways."
Used to connect an abstract concept to something concrete or familiar.
"This relates to real situations we encounter every day in our jobs and relationships."
Abstract concepts like justice, freedom, beauty, and innovation can be difficult to talk about in any language, but especially in English when you're learning. These ideas don't have physical form—you can't see or touch them. However, being able to discuss abstract concepts is important in academic, professional, and social conversations.
The key to explaining abstract ideas is to use concrete examples. When you want to talk about "leadership," for instance, you might describe a specific leader and their actions. When discussing "sustainability," you could explain what companies do to reduce waste and protect the environment. Examples make abstract concepts easier to understand and more interesting to discuss.
Another useful technique is to use comparisons or metaphors. You could say "Think of the economy as a living organism—when one part gets sick, it affects the whole system." This kind of comparison helps listeners understand something they cannot see or touch. It also shows that you're thinking deeply about the concept.
When discussing abstract ideas, you should also use your hedging phrases. Saying things like "You could say that," "In a way," and "This relates to" gives you flexibility to express ideas that might not be absolute or certain. This is actually more honest when talking about complex, abstract concepts.
With practice and patience, you can become confident discussing abstract ideas in English. Remember to use examples, comparisons, and hedging language to make your meaning clear and your argument persuasive.
~310 words • B1 Level
Think about these questions before your lesson. You don't need to write answers—just consider your thoughts.
For each question above, write maximum 3 keywords — no sentences. Then practise speaking your answer out loud from just the keywords.
Q1: "What abstract concept is most important to you? How would you explain it to someone else?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Now say your answer out loud. Speak for about 30 seconds from just your keywords.
Q2: "Can you think of a good metaphor or comparison for an abstract idea you've learned about?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Speak for 30 seconds. Let your brain build the sentences from the keywords.
Q3: "Which abstract concepts are easier to discuss in your native language, and which are more difficult?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Say your answer out loud — don't just think it! Your keywords are enough.
Remember: keywords only. Your brain does the rest. Mistakes are good — they mean you're practising speaking, not reading.
Preparation time: ~15 minutes