Existential: meaning, definitions and examples
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existential
[ ɪɡˈzɪs.tən.ʃəl ]
philosophical concept
The term 'existential' relates to existence and the human condition. Often used in philosophical discourse, it refers to the thoughts and experiences surrounding the meaning of life, freedom, and individuality. Existentialism as a philosophy emphasizes individual existence, choice, and responsibility. It challenges people to confront the inherent absurdity of life and to find personal meaning in an indifferent universe.
Synonyms
ontological, philosophical, self-reflective
Examples of usage
- Existential questions often arise during times of crisis.
- Many writers explore existential themes in their work.
- He attended existential philosophy lectures to understand life better.
Translations
Translations of the word "existential" in other languages:
🇵🇹 existencial
🇮🇳 अस्तित्ववादी
🇩🇪 existentiell
🇮🇩 eksistensial
🇺🇦 екзистенційний
🇵🇱 egzystencjalny
🇯🇵 実存的な
🇫🇷 existentiel
🇪🇸 existencial
🇹🇷 varoluşsal
🇰🇷 실존적인
🇸🇦 وجودي
🇨🇿 existenciální
🇸🇰 existenciálny
🇨🇳 存在主义的
🇸🇮 eksistencialen
🇮🇸 tilvistarken
🇰🇿 экзистенциалдық
🇬🇪 ექსისტენციალური
🇦🇿 mövcudiyyətçi
🇲🇽 existencial
Etymology
The word 'existential' stems from the Latin word 'existere', which means 'to stand out' or 'to emerge'. This Latin root combines 'ex-' (meaning 'out of') with 'sistere' (meaning 'to stand'). The term began to appear in philosophical contexts in the late 19th century, primarily through the works of existentialist philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche, who emphasized the importance of individual experience and choice. Over time, 'existential' evolved into a descriptor of those aspects of philosophy that focus on human existence and the decision-making process. Its usage expanded within literature and psychology, especially in the 20th century, as writers and thinkers examined the human condition in an increasingly complex world.