Synchronicity: meaning, definitions and examples

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synchronicity

 

[ˌsɪŋkrəˈnɪsɪti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

concept of meaningful coincidences

Synchronicity is a concept, first introduced by Swiss psychologist Carl Jung, that refers to the occurrence of meaningful coincidences that cannot be explained by cause and effect. It suggests a deeper interconnection between events in the external world and the individual's psyche. This concept implies that events are not purely random but are instead influenced by a hidden order or intelligence.

Synonyms

connected events, meaningful coincidences, mysterious correlations.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
synchronicity

Often used in more philosophical or psychological contexts to describe the simultaneous occurrence of events that appear significantly related but have no discernible causal connection.

  • Jung's theory of synchronicity suggests that there are connections between events that go beyond cause and effect.
  • I experienced a moment of synchronicity when I ran into an old friend just after thinking about them.
meaningful coincidences

Typically used to emphasize the significance of the coincidence, often within personal or emotional narratives.

  • Running into my old teacher on my first day at my new job felt like a meaningful coincidence.
  • The meeting felt like more than just chance; it was a meaningful coincidence.
connected events

Used in more general discussions to describe events that are linked or related in some way, which can be causal or non-causal.

  • The connected events of the economic crisis led to a global recession.
  • She noticed that the fire alarm and the start of the storm were connected events.
mysterious correlations

Used to describe events or phenomena that are correlated in an inexplicable or puzzling way, often highlighting a sense of intrigue.

  • There are mysterious correlations between the phases of the moon and human behavior.
  • Scientists are studying the mysterious correlations between solar activity and climate changes.

Examples of usage

  • Synchronicity is often experienced as a series of uncanny events that seem to be interconnected.
  • Many people believe that synchronicity is a sign of alignment with the universe.
  • The idea of synchronicity challenges the traditional scientific view of causality.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term was coined by the Swiss psychologist Carl Jung in the early 20th century to describe meaningful coincidences.
  • It combines the Greek words 'syn' (together) and 'chronos' (time), suggesting events are linked in both time and significance.

Psychology

  • Jung believed synchronicity was a manifestation of the collective unconscious, where all human experiences are interconnected.
  • Research suggests that people experience synchronicity during significant life changes or crises, highlighting its psychological impact.

Pop Culture

  • The concept appears in various films and books, often portraying characters experiencing profound realizations or connections.
  • Musician Sting has a band named 'The Police' and an album titled 'Synchronicity', reflecting the idea of aligned creative forces.

Spirituality

  • In spiritual circles, synchronicity is viewed as messages from the universe, guiding individuals toward their true paths.
  • Many believe noticing synchronicities can enhance one's intuition, helping to make better life choices.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like Alfred North Whitehead have discussed the significance of interconnected events, influencing thoughts on reality and existence.
  • The idea challenges traditional concepts of causality, suggesting that not all events are linked linearly but can be meaningfully connected.

Translations

Translations of the word "synchronicity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sincronicidade

🇮🇳 समकालिकता

🇩🇪 Synchronizität

🇮🇩 sinkronisitas

🇺🇦 синхронність

🇵🇱 synchroniczność

🇯🇵 シンクロニシティ

🇫🇷 synchronicité

🇪🇸 sincronicidad

🇹🇷 eşzamanlılık

🇰🇷 동시성

🇸🇦 التزامن

🇨🇿 synchronicita

🇸🇰 synchronicita

🇨🇳 同步性

🇸🇮 sinhroniciteta

🇮🇸 samstilling

🇰🇿 синхрондылық

🇬🇪 სინქრონულობა

🇦🇿 sinkroniklik

🇲🇽 sincronicidad

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,465 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.