1. Separately, distinctly, independently from.
1637. Sanderson, 21 Serm., Ad Aul. vi. (1673), 90. We consider it abstractedly from those discommodiousnesses and incumbrances which yet inseparably cleave thereunto.
1741. Middleton, Cicero, II. vii. 84. If we consider this famous passage of the Rubicon, abstractedly from the event, it seems to have been … hazardous & desperate.
1865. Mill, Repr. Gov., 24/2. Abstractedly from religious considerations, a passive character … may not indeed be very useful to others.
2. With absence of mind.
1836. Dickens, Nich. Nick. (C. D. ed.), 57. ‘Where indeed!’ said Nicholas abstractedly.
1866. Geo. Eliot, Felix Holt, III. xxxvii. 47. The minister paused, and seemed to be abstractedly gazing at some memory.
3. From an abstract point of view; in the abstract; abstractly.
1649. Jer. Taylor, Great Exemp., III. § 17. If we consider a spiritual life abstractedly, and in itself.
1790. Burke, Fr. Revol., Wks. V. 36. Abstractedly speaking, government, as well as liberty, is good.
1826. Disraeli, Viv. Grey, VI. iv. 330. A constitutional freedom the absence of which they only abstractedly feel.
