Meaningless Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
meaningless
[หmiหnษชลlษs ]
Definitions
feeling
Having no meaning or significance; lacking importance.
Synonyms
insignificant, pointless, trivial, unimportant.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| meaningless |
Used when discussing something that has no value, purpose, or significance, often in a broader or existential sense.
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| unimportant |
Used to describe something that lacks importance or relevance in a given situation, indicating that it should not be given much attention or priority.
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| insignificant |
Refers to something minor or small in importance, typically used in a comparative context to denote lesser value.
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| trivial |
Refers to something of little importance or value, often used when discussing details or matters that seem minor or superficial.
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| pointless |
Used when something lacks purpose or effectiveness, often implying that the effort involved is wasted.
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Examples of usage
- It was a meaningless gesture.
- The speech was full of meaningless platitudes.
- Don't waste your time on meaningless activities.
communication
Having no meaning or purpose; nonsensical.
Synonyms
absurd, illogical, incomprehensible, nonsensical.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| meaningless |
This word is used when something has no purpose, value, or significance.
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| nonsensical |
This term is used when something is silly, makes no sense, or is foolish. It often has a negative connotation.
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| illogical |
This word applies when something does not follow logical reasoning or makes no sense from a rational perspective.
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| absurd |
Used when something is ridiculously unreasonable or extreme to the point of being laughable. It's often negative.
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| incomprehensible |
Used when something cannot be understood, often due to complexity or lack of clarity.
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Examples of usage
- She made a series of meaningless remarks.
- The document was filled with meaningless jargon.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Philosophers have debated the concept of meaning for centuries, with existentialists arguing that life may inherently lack meaning except what we create ourselves.
- In nihilism, a philosophical viewpoint, it is suggested that life or existence can be seen as meaningless.
- Postmodern thinkers often challenge the idea of absolute meaning, suggesting that meanings are subjective and constructed by individual experiences.
Literature
- In literature, authors like Samuel Beckett have explored themes of meaninglessness, especially in absurdist plays like 'Waiting for Godot'.
- Many modern novels feature characters grappling with feelings of meaninglessness in a rapidly changing world, reflecting societal uncertainties.
- Poets often use the term to express feelings of despair or disillusionment, viewing the world as devoid of significance.
Psychology
- Feeling that life is meaningless is often linked to mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, where individuals struggle to find purpose.
- Research shows that people who feel their lives lack meaning may experience higher stress and lower overall well-being.
- Positive psychology emphasizes the importance of finding personal meaning in life, suggesting strategies to combat feelings of meaninglessness.
Pop Culture
- Songs like 'Mad World' discuss feelings of meaninglessness, resonating with listeners who feel disconnected from their surroundings.
- Movies like 'Fight Club' tackle themes of consumerism and existential dread, questioning the importance we place on material possessions.
- TV shows often explore characters facing existential dilemmas that lead them to question the significance of their actions and lives.
Origin of 'meaningless'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'meaningless' is made up of 'meaning' from the Old English 'mรฆnan' meaning 'to intend or signify' and the suffix '-less' which means 'without'.
- It first appeared in English texts in the early 19th century, indicating something lacking significance or value.
- The term has evolved over centuries, often used in philosophical discussions about the nature of life and purpose.
The word 'meaningless' originated from the combination of 'meaning' and the suffix '-less', which denotes the absence or lack of something. It first appeared in the English language in the early 18th century. The concept of 'meaningless' has been explored in various philosophical and literary works, reflecting on the nature of significance and purpose in human existence.
See also: demean, demeaning, mean, meanly, meanness, means, meant, meantime, meanwhile, meanwhilst.