material form
[/məˈtɪriəl fɔːrm/]
nounpl: material forms
forma material
1. The physical or tangible shape and structure that something takes; the concrete embodiment of an abstract concept or idea
The artist gave material form to her vision through sculpture.
A artista deu forma material à sua visão através da escultura.
2. In philosophy, the physical substance or matter that composes an object as opposed to its essence or spiritual nature
The material form of the statue is marble, but its spiritual form transcends the physical.
A forma material da estátua é mármore, mas sua forma espiritual transcende o físico.
3. The concrete manifestation or practical realization of something abstract
The policy took material form through new legislation and regulations.
A política tomou forma material através de nova legislação e regulamentos.
This term is commonly used in Brazilian academic, philosophical, and artistic circles. In Portuguese-speaking cultures, the distinction between 'forma material' (material form) and 'forma espiritual' or 'essência' (spiritual form or essence) reflects philosophical traditions influenced by both European scholasticism and contemporary phenomenology.
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