Mentally vs. Physically — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on August 31, 2023
Mentally pertains to the mind or cognitive processes, while physically relates to the body or material existence.
Difference Between Mentally and Physically
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Mentally refers to anything that is associated with the mind or cognitive functions. This can encompass thoughts, emotions, and intellectual capabilities. Physically, on the other hand, relates to the tangible, corporeal aspects of existence, such as bodily movements, actions, or attributes.
Mentally can describe how one thinks, feels, or understands certain concepts. For example, someone might be mentally stimulated by a challenging puzzle. Physically, in contrast, would detail how one might interact with that puzzle, such as fitting the pieces together or holding it.
When discussing health or wellness, being mentally healthy refers to having a sound mind, free from severe mental disorders or excessive stress. Being physically healthy means one's body is functioning at its optimal level, free from ailments or injuries.
Mentally can also hint at one's psychological state or mood. If someone is mentally exhausted, they might be drained due to prolonged periods of stress or overthinking. Physically exhausted, however, implies that the body is worn out, perhaps after rigorous exercise or a long day of manual labor.
Lastly, training or improving oneself mentally might involve studying, reading, or practicing meditation. Physically enhancing oneself might involve workouts, dietary changes, or improving one's posture.
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Comparison Chart
Pertains to
Mind
Body
Examples of Activity
Thinking
Running
Health Implication
Stress
Injury
Training Method
Studying
Exercising
Signs of Exhaustion
Burnout
Fatigue
Compare with Definitions
Mentally
Relating to the mind or intellectual processes.
She's always been mentally sharp.
Physically
Relating to the body or material existence.
He was physically present but mentally absent.
Mentally
Of or relating to the mind
Mental powers.
Mental health.
Physically
Indicative of bodily actions or movements.
She couldn't lift the box physically but tried other methods.
Mentally
Pertaining to one's psychological state or emotions.
He's been mentally drained lately.
Physically
Involving sexual interest or activity
A physical attraction.
Physical intimacy.
Mentally
Indicative of cognitive skills or abilities.
She solved the riddle mentally before writing the answer.
Physically
Pertaining to one's tangible health or bodily well-being.
After the accident, he wasn't physically the same.
Mentally
Referring to one's capacity for understanding or comprehension.
He grasped the concept mentally but couldn't explain it.
Physically
Of or relating to the body.
Mentally
Connected with mental health or wellness.
She sought help when she felt mentally overwhelmed.
Physically
Describing a direct, tangible interaction or effect.
The building was physically imposing.
Mentally
Executed or performed by the mind; existing in the mind
Mental calculation.
A mental image.
Physically
(obsolete) According to the rules of medicine.
He that lives physically must live miserably. — Cheyne.
Mentally
(Slang) Emotionally upset; crazed
Got mental when he saw the dent in his new car.
Physically
According to the rules of medicine.
He that lives physically must live miserably.
Mentally
Offensive Slang Having a mental illness or intellectual disability.
Physically
Referring to the inherent attributes or properties of matter.
Water is physically different from oil.
Mentally
Often Offensive Relating to or being a place for housing or treating people with mental illness or intellectual disability
A mental ward.
Physically
In a manner relating to the body as opposed to the mind
Physically demanding work
I found her physically attractive
Mentally
In a mental manner; an idea thought out in one's mind, as opposed to an idea spoken orally.
Mentally capable
Mentally ill
This is a problem that needs to be solved mentally, not with brute force.
Physically
In a way that relates to the real world and things perceived through the senses as opposed to the mind
Cyberspace is a virtual place; it does not physically exist
Mentally
In the mind; in thought or meditation; intellectually; in idea.
Physically
Having a physiological basis or origin
A physical craving for an addictive drug.
Mentally
In your mind;
He suffered mentally
Physically
Involving or characterized by vigorous or forceful bodily activity
Physical aggression.
A fast and physical dance performance.
Physically
(Slang) Involving or characterized by violence
"A real cop would get physical" (TV Guide).
Physically
Of or relating to material things
A wall that formed a physical barrier.
The physical environment.
Physically
Of or relating to matter and energy or the sciences dealing with them, especially physics.
Physically
A physical examination.
Physically
In a physical manner.
Physically
According to the laws of physics.
Physically
Using physical force.
Physically
In a physical manner; according to the laws of nature or physics; by physical force; not morally.
I am not now treating physically of light or colors.
Physically
In accord with physical laws;
It is physically impossible
Common Curiosities
What is the difference between mentally and physically?
Mentally pertains to the mind, cognitive processes, or emotional state while physically relates to the body, its actions, and material attributes.
How can someone improve themselves mentally?
Improving oneself mentally can involve activities like reading, meditation, seeking therapy, or engaging in intellectually stimulating activities.
Is mental health as important as physical health?
Yes, mental health is as crucial as physical health, both influencing overall well-being.
How can someone strengthen themselves physically?
Strengthening oneself physically typically involves exercises, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring regular health check-ups.
Do physically demanding jobs impact one's mental health?
Physically demanding jobs can impact mental health by causing stress, fatigue, and sometimes leading to burnout or depression.
Why is it essential to balance mental and physical activities?
Balancing mental and physical activities ensures overall well-being, preventing burnout in one area while neglecting the other.
How can one be physically present but mentally absent?
Being physically present but mentally absent means one's body is in a place, but their mind is distracted or preoccupied elsewhere.
Are there illnesses that are both mental and physical?
Yes, some illnesses, like depression, can have both mental symptoms (like feelings of sadness) and physical symptoms (like fatigue).
Can mental stress manifest physically?
Yes, mental stress can manifest physically through symptoms like headaches, fatigue, or stomach issues.
Does mental preparation aid in physical activities?
Yes, mental preparation can enhance focus, boost confidence, and improve overall performance in physical activities.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
