Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Transcending Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

✨
Add to dictionary

transcending

[trænˈsɛndɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

overcoming limits

To transcend means to go beyond the limits or boundaries of something. It often refers to surpassing a notion, experience, or state of existence. The term can be applied in various contexts such as personal growth, spirituality, and art. Transcending implies rising above and achieving a higher level or state, often associated with enlightenment or deeper understanding.

Synonyms

exceed, overcome, rise above, surpass.

Examples of usage

  • She strives to transcend her previous achievements.
  • The artist's work transcends traditional forms.
  • Meditation practices are often aimed at transcending the ego.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Transcendence often refers to experiences that go beyond normal physical limits, such as enlightenment or spiritual awakening.
  • Philosophers like Immanuel Kant discussed the concept of transcendental ideas, which help us understand our existence beyond sensory experience.
  • Transcendence plays a key role in existentialist and phenomenological thought, emphasizing the importance of individual experience.

Spirituality

  • Many religions speak of transcending earthly desires to reach a divine or spiritual state.
  • In Buddhism, achieving enlightenment is seen as a form of transcending the cycle of suffering.
  • Sufi mysticism emphasizes the importance of transcending the self to achieve unity with the divine.

Art and Culture

  • Transcending traditional boundaries has led to innovative art forms, such as abstract and conceptual art.
  • In music, artists who blend genres often create transcendent experiences for listeners, reaching beyond conventional limits.
  • Literature often explores themes of transcendence, encouraging readers to think beyond surface-level interpretations.

Science

  • In psychology, transcending refers to the ability to move beyond personal limitations, often through growth or therapy.
  • The theory of transcendental numbers in mathematics describes numbers that aren't roots of any non-zero polynomial equation with rational coefficients.
  • Quantum physics often explores concepts that transcend classical understanding, challenging our perceptions of reality.

Origin of 'transcending'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'transcendere' which means 'to climb over or beyond'.
  • In Latin, 'trans' means 'across' or 'beyond', and 'scandere' means 'to climb'.
  • The term gained prominence in philosophical discussions in the 18th century.

The word 'transcend' originates from the Latin verb 'transcendere', meaning 'to climb across' or 'to rise above'. It is composed of the prefix 'trans-', which means 'across', and 'scandere', which means 'to climb'. This term entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially used in philosophical contexts referring to experiences or states that go beyond normal limits. Over time, it has found applications in various fields, including religion, art, and personal development, where the idea of rising above challenges or conventional limits is often emphasized. The concept of transcending has been central to many philosophical and spiritual teachings, suggesting that there are higher truths or realities that one can achieve or experience.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,597, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.