Phenomena: meaning, definitions and examples

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phenomena

 

[ fəˈnɒmɪnə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

natural events

Phenomena are observable events or occurrences that can be studied and analyzed. They can refer to anything from natural occurrences, such as weather patterns, to social behaviors. The term is often used in various scientific fields to describe significant, observable things.

Synonyms

events, happenings, manifestations, occurrences

Examples of usage

  • The phenomenon of climate change is affecting ecosystems.
  • Auroras are natural phenomena that occur in polar regions.
  • Gravity is a fundamental phenomenon in physics.
Context #2 | Noun

extraordinary occurrences

In a more philosophical or artistic context, phenomena can also refer to extraordinary experiences or conditions that evoke deep emotional responses. This use often emphasizes the uniqueness or beauty of the event.

Synonyms

anomalies, marvels, wonders

Examples of usage

  • The painting captured the phenomenon of light beautifully.
  • She described her experience like a supernatural phenomenon.
  • The concert was a musical phenomenon that attracted global attention.

Translations

Translations of the word "phenomena" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fenómenos

🇮🇳 परिघटनाएँ

🇩🇪 Phänomene

🇮🇩 fenomena

🇺🇦 явища

🇵🇱 zjawiska

🇯🇵 現象

🇫🇷 phénomènes

🇪🇸 fenómenos

🇹🇷 fenomenler

🇰🇷 현상

🇸🇦 ظواهر

🇨🇿 jevy

🇸🇰 javiská

🇨🇳 现象

🇸🇮 pojav

🇮🇸 fyrirbæri

🇰🇿 құбылыстар

🇬🇪 ფენომენები

🇦🇿 fenomenlər

🇲🇽 fenómenos

Word origin

The word 'phenomenon' comes from the Greek word 'phainomena,' which is the plural of 'phainomenon,' meaning 'that which appears or is seen.' It is derived from the verb 'phaino,' meaning 'to show' or 'to bring to light.' The term began to be used in English in the early 18th century, originally in a scientific context to describe observable events in nature. Over time, its usage expanded to include both natural and social phenomena, reflecting the diverse range of human experience. The philosophical implications of the word have also been explored, particularly in discussions of perception and reality.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,917, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.