Nihilist: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is best used when describing someone who believes that life is meaningless and rejects all religious and moral principles. It is often used in philosophical discussions.

• She described herself as a nihilist, believing there is no inherent meaning to existence.
• The character in the book was a nihilist who scoffed at societal norms.

Use this term for someone who distrusts people's motives, believing they are driven by self-interest. It carries a negative connotation and is often used in social contexts.

• He's such a cynic; he never believes anyone can do good out of pure intentions.
• The cynic in the crowd jeered at the politician's promises.

This is appropriate when talking about someone who doubted or questioned accepted opinions, beliefs, or claims. It’s often used in contexts involving science, religion, or new information.

• He was a skeptic when it came to believing in supernatural phenomena.
• The scientist remained a skeptic until the new theory was thoroughly tested.

This word is suitable when referring to someone who tends to see the worst aspect of things or believes that the worst will happen. It is often used in everyday conversations about attitudes towards life or specific situations.

• Stop being such a pessimist, things will work out in the end.
• As a pessimist, she always expects rain on her picnic days.

Use when referring to someone who believes that life is meaningless and rejects all moral and religious principles. The tone is often negative.

• The philosopher was labeled a nihilist for questioning the meaning of existence.
• His nihilistic views made it difficult for him to find joy in everyday life.

Use when talking about someone who believes in or advocates for the absence of government and absolute freedom of the individual. This term is often used in political contexts.

• The anarchist called for the dismantling of all government structures.
• She attended the anarchist rally to protest against government surveillance.

Use when describing someone who advocates for or is involved in significant, often sudden, change in social or political structures. This term can be neutral or positive.

• The revolutionary leader inspired the masses to rise against the oppressive regime.
• Her revolutionary ideas on healthcare reform received widespread support.

Use when referring to someone who seeks to undermine or overthrow established systems or institutions, often secretly. This term has a negative connotation.

• The subversive group worked covertly to destabilize the government.
• His writings were considered subversive and banned by the authorities.