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Manque Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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manque

[mษ‘หล‹k ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cultural term

Manque refers to someone who has failed to achieve their potential or to realize their aspirations. It can denote a person who has fallen short of their intended goals in life or their creative endeavors. The term is often used in artistic and literary contexts to describe individuals whose talents and ambitions remain unfulfilled. It carries a sense of loss or wasted potential, hinting at a tragedy in the unachieved dreams of the individual.

Synonyms

failure, underachiever, unfulfilled.

Examples of usage

  • The painter was seen as a manque after never displaying his works.
  • Despite his talents, he remained a literary manque.
  • She felt like a manque in her career as an architect.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • The feeling of manque can suggest unfulfilled desires or unmet needs within an individualโ€™s life.
  • Psychologists may link the sense of manque to feelings of isolation or disappointment.
  • It frequently arises during major life transitions when people reassess their goals or relationships.

Literature

  • The concept often appears in existential literature, expressing the characters' internal struggles.
  • Famous authors such as Albert Camus and Jean-Paul Sartre explored themes of alienation and longing in their works.
  • The term may also apply to characters who feel incomplete or are searching for purpose.

Art

  • Many artists portray the concept of manque through themes of absence in their works, representing inner voids.
  • Visual art movements like Surrealism often explore existential feelings related to lack, reflecting broader human experiences.
  • Art can evoke emotions associated with manque, inviting viewers to contemplate their own experiences of desire and loss.

Origin of 'manque'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from French, where 'manquer' means 'to miss' or 'to lack'.
  • The word entered English usage primarily through literary translations in the 19th century.
  • The term often appears in discussions about existential themes, reflecting deeper philosophical ideas.

The term 'manque' originates from the French word of the same spelling, which translates to 'lacking' or 'missing.' It is derived from the Latin word 'manuaria,' meaning 'to make empty' or 'to miss.' This term entered English usage in the early 20th century, predominantly in artistic and literary discussions. Influential writers and critics adopted it to articulate the disappointment experienced by talented individuals who did not reach their full potential. Over time, it has evolved to retain a depth of meaning associated with unfulfilled aspirations across various fields, signifying a poignant emotional response to unrealized dreams.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,705, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.