Oblivion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ต
oblivion
[ษหblษชvษชษn ]
Definitions
in a sentence
The state of being completely forgotten or unknown.
Synonyms
forgetfulness, obscurity, unconsciousness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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oblivion |
Use 'oblivion' when referring to a state of being completely forgotten or the state of being unaware of what is happening around you. It often has a more dramatic or poetic connotation.
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obscurity |
Use 'obscurity' to describe the state of being unknown, inconspicuous, or unimportant. It often refers to things or people that are not well-known or prominent.
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forgetfulness |
Use 'forgetfulness' to describe the quality or state of frequently forgetting things. It often points to a characteristic or failing in a person.
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unconsciousness |
Use 'unconsciousness' to refer to the state of being unaware and unresponsive to the environment, often in a medical context, such as being knocked out or as a result of anesthesia.
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Examples of usage
- He was resigned to a life of oblivion, never to be remembered by anyone.
- The once famous artist faded into oblivion after his last exhibition.
in a sentence
The state of being unaware or unconscious of what is happening around you.
Synonyms
ignorance, unawareness, unconsciousness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
oblivion |
Refers to being completely forgotten or the state of being unaware of what is happening around. Often used in a dramatic or poetic context.
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unawareness |
Indicates not being aware or conscious of something. Neutral in tone and can be used in everyday situations.
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ignorance |
Describes a lack of knowledge, understanding, or information about something. Often carries a negative connotation.
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unconsciousness |
Refers to a state where a person is not awake and aware of their surroundings, often due to illness or injury.
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Examples of usage
- She walked around in a daze, lost in oblivion of her surroundings.
- The drug induced a state of blissful oblivion.
in a sentence
The state of nonexistence or nothingness.
Synonyms
nonexistence, nothingness, void.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
oblivion |
Used when referring to a state of being forgotten or completely unaware. This might be due to time passing, destruction, or a mental state.
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nonexistence |
Used when something does not exist or has ceased to exist. Often used in philosophical or existential discussions.
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void |
Used to describe an empty space or a feeling of emptiness. It can be physical or emotional.
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nothingness |
Used to describe a state of being where nothing exists. It often carries a philosophical or existential connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The thought of eternal oblivion after death haunted her.
- The void of oblivion swallowed everything in its path.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Shakespeareโs plays, characters often refer to 'oblivion' as a fate worse than death, highlighting the fear of being forgotten.
- The concept has inspired numerous works of poetry and novels, where characters grapple with memory and identity.
- Dante's 'Divine Comedy' creatively explores the idea of souls facing oblivion in the afterlife, questioning the impact of oneโs earthly actions.
Pop Culture
- The term 'oblivion' is the title of a popular video game that explores themes of memory and reality in a fantasy setting.
- Films like 'Oblivion' (2013) starring Tom Cruise delve into the consequences of forgetting one's past and the impact of technology.
- In music, several songs reference 'oblivion', often discussing feelings of loss or being forgotten.
Philosophy
- Philosophers have extensively debated the concept of oblivion concerning existentialism, questioning the meaning of life and legacy.
- The idea of oblivion ties into discussions of death and memory, exploring what it means to leave a mark on the world.
- Cave paintings from prehistoric times can be seen as humanity's attempt to escape oblivion by recording their existence.
Psychology
- Psychologists study oblivion in the context of memory loss, particularly in conditions like amnesia.
- The phenomenon of blocking out traumatic memories can be associated with a psychological form of oblivion.
- Research indicates that the brain actively prunes memories, which can lead to certain experiences fading into oblivion over time.
Origin of 'oblivion'
Main points about word origin
- 'Oblivion' comes from the Latin word 'oblivio', which means forgetfulness or the act of forgetting.
- The term has been used since the 14th century in English literature, originally meaning total forgetfulness.
- Over time, 'oblivion' has also come to signify a state of extinction, as in being lost or destroyed without any remaining trace.
The word 'oblivion' originates from the Latin word 'oblivio' meaning 'forgetfulness' or 'oblivion'. It has been in use in English since the late 14th century. The concept of oblivion has been a recurring theme in literature, philosophy, and psychology, symbolizing the state of being forgotten, unaware, or nonexistence. The word has evolved to encompass various meanings related to forgetfulness, unconsciousness, and nothingness.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #13,112, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.
- ...
- 13109 passionately
- 13110 condemning
- 13111 grounding
- 13112 oblivion
- 13113 widen
- 13114 woollen
- 13115 bathed
- ...