The word "metaphysics" is spelled as /ˌmɛtəˈfɪzɪks/. The initial "meta-" indicates that it goes beyond or transcends physics. In terms of pronunciation, it starts with a short "e" sound, followed by the "t" sound, and then a short "a" sound pronounced with the mouth slightly open. The "ph" is pronounced like "f" and "y" is pronounced as "i". Lastly, the "ks" at the end of the word is pronounced with a sharp "ks" sound. Overall, the phonetic transcription gives a clear understanding of the correct pronunciation of the word "metaphysics".
Metaphysics refers to a branch of philosophy that explores concepts and principles beyond the physical world, particularly focusing on the nature of reality, existence, knowledge, and the fundamental aspects of being. Derived from the Greek words "meta" (meaning beyond or transcending) and "physika" (meaning physical), metaphysics delves into subjects that go beyond the realms of the observable and measurable.
In metaphysics, philosophers contemplate and analyze abstract concepts such as being, time, space, causality, identity, substance, and the nature of existence itself. It seeks to answer profound questions regarding the fundamental nature of reality, the existence of God or a higher power, the relationship between mind and matter, consciousness, the nature of human existence, and the nature of reality.
Metaphysics explores the theoretical and abstract aspects of reality that may not be accessible through empirical observation or scientific methods. It often employs rational thought, logic, and speculation to unravel questions that cannot be answered through physical evidence alone. Metaphysical inquiry investigates the nature of truth, the existence of universals or abstract objects, the possibility of determinism and free will, and other profound questions that probe the essence of reality and human existence.
In summary, metaphysics is the philosophical exploration of subjects that surpass the confines of the empirical and physical world, aiming to understand the underlying essence, principles, and nature of reality and existence.
The science of mind or intelligence, as distinguished from the science of natural bodies or matter; philosophy in the general sense of the term, together with psychology. Note.- So called by the ancients, because they considered the science of natural bodies or physics the first in order of study, and the science of mind the second; but the name more probably arose from the simple fact that the writings of the first philosophy came after the physical treatises of the author.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "metaphysics" is derived from the Greek language. It is a combination of two Greek words: "meta" meaning "beyond" or "after" and "physika" meaning "physics" or "nature". The term was coined by early Greek philosopher Aristotle, who used it to refer to the branch of philosophy that goes beyond the study of the physical world and explores fundamental questions about reality, existence, and the nature of being. Over time, "metaphysics" became a standard term to describe philosophical inquiries into the nature of reality and the fundamental principles that govern the universe.