noun
idealization
A theoretical model that leaves out real-world complexities.
A frictionless surface is an idealization that simplifies the calculation.
Etymology
Idealization forms a model from an ideal conception. It deliberately leaves out complications so that selected relationships can be examined more clearly.
More examples
- The ideal gas is a useful idealization of real gases.
- Economists use idealizations that assume every buyer has complete information.
- This idealization treats the entire population as identical individuals.
Forms
idealization · idealizations
idealize verb — To represent something in simplified, ideal form.
Similar words
- abstraction
- Leaves out specifics without necessarily describing a theoretical model.
- approximation
- Emphasizes closeness to reality rather than omission of complexities.