Manifest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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manifest

[หˆman.ษช.fest ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

political

A public declaration of intentions, motives, or views, issued by a government, organization, or individual.

Synonyms

declaration, proclamation, statement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
manifest

Usually a written document listing details, especially for passengers or goods on a vehicle or ship.

  • The ship's manifest listed all the cargo it was carrying
  • Check the flight manifest for your seat assignment
declaration

This word fits formal announcements or statements, often in official or legal contexts.

  • The president made a declaration of war
  • The company issued a declaration of its environmental policies
proclamation

This word is best for formal, public announcements made by someone in authority, often used in ceremonial or significant events.

  • The king issued a proclamation abolishing the old laws
  • The mayor's proclamation declared the day a public holiday
statement

A general word for any clearly expressed idea or opinion, often used in everyday and formal contexts.

  • Her statement about the project was very clear
  • The police issued a statement regarding the incident

Examples of usage

  • The government issued a manifesto outlining their plans for the upcoming year.
  • The manifesto called for social justice and equality for all citizens.
Context #2 | Verb

action

To display or show (a quality or feeling) by one's acts or appearance; demonstrate.

Synonyms

display, exhibit, show.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
manifest

Use 'manifest' when something becomes clear or evident through actions or signs. It often implies something is becoming visible or noticeable.

  • His anxiety began to manifest itself through constant nervous habits.
  • The symptoms of the disease can manifest in various ways.
display

Use 'display' when referring to showing something to people, often for public viewing or to make an impression.

  • The artist decided to display her paintings in the local gallery.
  • He displayed his trophies proudly on the shelf.
show

Use 'show' for general, everyday situations where something is being presented or revealed to others. It is a versatile and commonly used word.

  • Can you show me how to use this software?
  • He showed his friends his new car.
exhibit

Use 'exhibit' in formal or professional settings to show objects or performances, usually in museums, galleries, or exhibitions.

  • The museum will exhibit ancient artifacts from Egypt next month.
  • She will exhibit her new clothing collection at the fashion show.

Examples of usage

  • She manifested great courage in the face of danger.
  • His actions manifested his true intentions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • The idea of manifestation is often connected to the law of attraction, which suggests that positive thoughts can attract positive outcomes.
  • Research suggests that visualization techniques can enhance motivation, supporting the idea that focusing on goals can lead to achieving them.
  • Manifestation practices, such as affirmations, help reinforce belief in one's capabilities and goals.

Pop Culture

  • The concept has gained popularity in self-help books and workshops, especially in New Age and motivational contexts.
  • Movies and TV shows often depict characters who manifest their desires, highlighting personal growth and the power of intention.
  • Social media platforms are filled with influencers who advocate for manifestation techniques, contributing to its trendiness.

Philosophy

  • In philosophical discussions, 'manifest' is used to describe the revelation of truths or ideas in a clear and understandable way.
  • Existentialist thinkers argue that manifesting one's essence involves authentic living and self-awareness.
  • Eastern philosophies often emphasize the idea of manifestation as connecting internal desires with the external world.

Literature

  • The term appears in various literary works, often symbolizing the journey from thought to reality.
  • Writers explore themes of manifestation in genres ranging from fantasy to realism, illustrating the contrasts between dreams and tangible outcomes.
  • Notable poets and authors have used 'manifest' to convey personal power and creative expression.

Origin of 'manifest'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'manifestus', which means 'obvious' or 'clear'.
  • It was first used in English around the 14th century, reflecting clarity in both the physical and metaphorical sense.
  • In nautical terms, a 'manifest' is a list of cargo on a ship, highlighting the importance of clarity in trade.

The word 'manifest' comes from the Latin word 'manifestus', which means 'evident' or 'clearly apprehensible'. It was first recorded in English in the late 16th century. The concept of a 'manifest' as a public declaration of intentions or views has been used in various political contexts throughout history, notably in the context of government statements or party platforms.


See also: manifestation, manifestations, manifested, manifestly, unmanifested.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,312, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.