Oblivion: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

• The ancient ruins fell into oblivion over the centuries.
• After the accident, he drifted into a realm of oblivion, unaware of his surroundings.

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.

• The poet remained in obscurity until long after his death.
• Despite his significant contributions to the field, he worked in relative obscurity.

Use 'forgetfulness' to describe the quality or state of frequently forgetting things. It often points to a characteristic or failing in a person.

• Her forgetfulness caused her to miss several important meetings.
• With age, his forgetfulness became more apparent.

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.

• She slipped into unconsciousness after the severe blow to her head.
• The doctors induced unconsciousness before beginning the surgery.

Refers to being completely forgotten or the state of being unaware of what is happening around. Often used in a dramatic or poetic context.

• After the war, many soldiers sought oblivion to escape their traumatic memories.
• The ancient city fell into oblivion and was only recently rediscovered by archaeologists.

Indicates not being aware or conscious of something. Neutral in tone and can be used in everyday situations.

• She walked into the room with complete unawareness of the surprise waiting for her.
• His unawareness of the deadline caused him to miss the submission.

Describes a lack of knowledge, understanding, or information about something. Often carries a negative connotation.

• His ignorance about current events made it hard for him to join in conversations.
• Ignorance of the law is not an excuse for breaking it.

Refers to a state where a person is not awake and aware of their surroundings, often due to illness or injury.

• After the accident, he was found in a state of unconsciousness by the roadside.
• Administering first aid can sometimes help revive someone from unconsciousness.

Used when referring to a state of being forgotten or completely unaware. This might be due to time passing, destruction, or a mental state.

• After the comet impact, the ancient city fell into oblivion
• She drank to oblivion, trying to escape her memories

Used when something does not exist or has ceased to exist. Often used in philosophical or existential discussions.

• He questioned the nonexistence of an afterlife
• The creature's nonexistence was proven scientifically

Used to describe an empty space or a feeling of emptiness. It can be physical or emotional.

• The astronaut felt a sense of fear while floating in the void of space
• After the breakup, he felt a void in his heart

Used to describe a state of being where nothing exists. It often carries a philosophical or existential connotation.

• Staring into the void, he felt the weight of nothingness
• The concept of nothingness can be very difficult to grasp