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philosophy

/fɪˈlɑ.sə.fi/ noun B1
  1. An academic discipline that seeks truth through reasoning rather than empiricism, often attempting to provide explanations relating to general concepts such as existence and rationality. (uncountable) · Philosophy is often divided into five major branches: logic, metaphysics, epistemology, ethics and aesthetics.
  2. A view or outlook regarding fundamental principles underlying some domain. (countable) · a philosophy of government; a philosophy of education
  3. A general principle (usually moral). (countable)
  4. A comprehensive system of belief. (countable)
  5. A calm and thoughtful demeanor; calmness of temper. (dated, uncountable)
  6. Synonym of small pica (especially in French printing). (countable, dated, uncountable)

Plural philosophies

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From the library

The first opportunity you have, confirm her in her opinion; it will be easy for you, as you have the philosophy of the one and the wit of the other.”
The Count of Monte Cristo, p. 707 · C1
He bore with philosophy the conviction that Elizabeth must now become acquainted with whatever of his ingratitude and falsehood had before been unknown to her; and, in spite of everything, was not wholly without hope that Darcy might yet be prevailed on to make his fortune.
Pride and Prejudice, p. 368 · B2
“What a bad calculator you are!” exclaimed Danglars, calling to his assistance all his philosophy and dissimulation.
The Count of Monte Cristo, p. 693 · C1
Of contemporary literature, philosophy and politics he appeared to know next to nothing.
A Study in Scarlet, p. 13 · B2

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Words, meanings, pronunciations and translations from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0); how common each word is from wordfreq. Made into this dictionary by FluentPlex.