Mental: Definition, Usage & Key Differences

Meaning 1：pertaining to the mind (mental)

mental 🔊

/ˈmɛntl̩/

adj.

Relating to the mind, thoughts, and feelings, rather than the body.

Mental concept illustration: person thinking with glowing ideas around head

pertaining to the mind 🔊

➕

/pərˈteɪnɪŋ tə ðə maɪnd/

adj.

Describes anything connected to the mind, thoughts, or emotions, as opposed to the physical body.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'mentalis', derived from 'mens' meaning 'mind'.

💡 Mnemonic

Link 'mental' to 'mind' – both start with 'm' and concern thoughts and feelings.

📖 Example

Regular exercise is good for both physical and mental health. 🔊 Engaging in regular physical activity promotes health for both the body and the mind.

🔗 Collocations

mental health – the state of one's psychological and emotional well-being

mental illness – a condition that affects a person's thinking, feeling, or behavior

mental capacity – the ability to think and understand

🔄 Synonyms

psychological (adj.) – relating to the mind or emotions

cognitive (adj.) – related to the process of knowing, including awareness and judgment

intellectual (adj.) – involving the ability to think and understand ideas

🚫 Antonyms

physical (adj.) – relating to the body rather than the mind

bodily (adj.) – pertaining to the body

🌱 Derivatives

mentally (adv.) – in a way that relates to the mind

mentality (n.) – a particular way of thinking; mindset

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'mental' originates from Latin 'mentalis', relating to the mind. In modern English, it is frequently used in contexts like 'mental health' to emphasize psychological well-being, reflecting increased awareness in healthcare.