Ephemerality: meaning, definitions and examples
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ephemerality
[ɪˌfɛməˈræləti ]
Definition
nature of existence
Ephemerality refers to the transient and fleeting nature of existence, emphasizing the temporary and short-lived aspects of life. It highlights the impermanence of things and the constant change that characterizes the world.
Synonyms
fleetingness, transience, transitoriness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
ephemerality |
Used in formal or literary contexts to describe the fleeting nature of something. Often used to emphasize the poetic or philosophical aspect of short-lived experiences or phenomena.
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transience |
Used in a variety of contexts, such as describing the temporary nature of human life, emotions, or experiences. It may carry a slight connotation of sadness or wistfulness.
|
fleetingness |
Used in everyday language to describe something that is very short-lived, often with a sense of urgency or missed opportunity.
|
transitoriness |
Used in formal or academic contexts to refer to the quality of being temporary or short-lived. Often used in discussions about time, life, or material objects.
|
Examples of usage
- The beauty of the cherry blossoms is a poignant reminder of the ephemerality of life.
- His art captures the ephemerality of youth, frozen in a moment of time.
- She pondered the ephemerality of happiness, knowing that it could vanish in an instant.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term comes from the Greek word 'ephemeros', which means 'lasting a day' or 'temporary'.
- The root 'hemeros' refers specifically to 'day', highlighting the fleeting nature of ephemeral things.
Art and Literature
- Many artists create temporary installations or performances, embracing the idea of beauty in things that won't stick around, like sand sculptures.
- Literary works often explore themes of transience, prompting readers to appreciate the fleeting moments of life.
Nature
- Certain insects, like mayflies, have very short life spans, sometimes living only a single day. They embody the concept of ephemerality.
- Flowers such as cherry blossoms bloom beautifully but last only a short time, captivating many with their brief presence.
Philosophy
- Many philosophical discussions focus on the importance of recognizing life's transitory moments, suggesting it enhances appreciation and gratitude.
- The concept encourages people to live in the present, as everything around us is temporary.
Technology
- In the digital age, 'ephemeral' can refer to content that disappears after a set time, like stories on social media platforms.
- The rise of fleeting media reflects our growing awareness of impermanence in a fast-paced technological world.
Translations
Translations of the word "ephemerality" in other languages:
🇵🇹 efemeridade
🇮🇳 क्षणभंगुरता
🇩🇪 Vergänglichkeit
🇮🇩 kefanaan
🇺🇦 ефемерність
🇵🇱 efemeryczność
🇯🇵 儚さ (はかなさ)
🇫🇷 éphémérité
🇪🇸 efimeridad
🇹🇷 geçicilik
🇰🇷 덧없음
🇸🇦 زوال
🇨🇿 pomíjivost
🇸🇰 pominuteľnosť
🇨🇳 短暂 (duǎnzàn)
🇸🇮 efemernost
🇮🇸 skammvinnleiki
🇰🇿 өткіншілік
🇬🇪 წარმავალი
🇦🇿 keçicilik
🇲🇽 efimeridad