Words / B2

KONGKR-eet/ˈkɒŋkriːt/

Concrete as an adjective means clear and specific, not abstract: a concrete example, concrete evidence. Specific and definite are everyday cousins; tangible is close when you can point to it. Concrete is also the building material (a concrete floor) — a different, physical sense. In speech, a real example is enough. Use the adjective for something you can instance, not for a vague “practical vibe.” Do not write concrete when you only mean the building material unless the context is construction.

Meaning

Clear and specific, not abstract; also the building material.

Examples

• “Give me a concrete example, not a theory.”
• “Give me a concrete example from last week’s lesson, not a theory of “engagement.””
• “The new lab has a concrete floor; that is the material, not a synonym for “specific.””

Good to know

Adjective: specific, not abstract. Everyday: specific / a real example. Also the building material (noun/adjective). Keep the senses apart.

Near in meaning

specific

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