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Omniscient: meaning, definitions and examples

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omniscient

 

[ ɒmˈnɪʃənt ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

literary use

The term 'omniscient' refers to the ability to know everything. In literature, an omniscient narrator is one who has a complete understanding of all characters’ thoughts and feelings, as well as knowledge of the entire plot. This perspective allows the narrator to provide insights and context that individual characters themselves may not understand. The omniscient view can create a deeper connection with the reader, as it offers a broad scope of the narrative. It's often used in novels to reveal multiple viewpoints and to weave together various storylines.

Synonyms

all-knowing, all-seeing, universal knowledge

Examples of usage

  • The omniscient narrator revealed the secret thoughts of each character.
  • In this novel, the omniscient point of view enriches the story.
  • The author chose an omniscient style to give readers a comprehensive understanding.
  • Through an omniscient lens, the complexities of human emotions unfolded.
  • Readers appreciated the omniscient commentary throughout the tale.

Translations

Translations of the word "omniscient" in other languages:

🇵🇹 onisciente

🇮🇳 सर्वज्ञ (sarvagya)

🇩🇪 allwissend

🇮🇩 maha tahu

🇺🇦 всезнаючий

🇵🇱 wszechwiedzący

🇯🇵 全知の (zenchi no)

🇫🇷 omniscient

🇪🇸 omnisciente

🇹🇷 her şeyi bilen

🇰🇷 전지전능한 (jeonji jeonneunghan)

🇸🇦 العليم (al-‘alim)

🇨🇿 vševědoucí

🇸🇰 vševědúci

🇨🇳 全知的 (quán zhī de)

🇸🇮 vsevedni

🇮🇸 allsjáandi

🇰🇿 барша білуші (barsha bilushi)

🇬🇪 ყველა უწყისი (q'veela udzuri)

🇦🇿 hər şeyi bilən

🇲🇽 omnisciente

Etymology

The word 'omniscient' originates from the Latin term 'omniscientem,' which is the accusative singular form of 'omniscientis.' The root consists of the prefix 'omni-' meaning 'all' or 'every' and 'scient' derived from 'scire,' meaning 'to know.' This term emerged in the English language during the early 17th century, becoming popular in literary and theological contexts. In literature, its application allows authors to explore plots and character minds more extensively, leading to a rich storytelling experience. Additionally, discussions of an omniscient God in religious texts have reinforced the term's significance, as it underscores the concept of an all-knowing deity. Over time, 'omniscient' has transcended its original theological roots and is now widely used in various contexts, particularly in literature and philosophy.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,894, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.