existential
eg-zih-STEN-shuhl
/ˌɛɡzɪˈstɛnʃəl/
Relating to human existence, especially the problem of living in a universe without objective meaning.
Refers specifically to questions of survival, purpose, and personal responsibility rather than technical logic.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin exsistere, meaning 'to step forth' or 'to emerge'. It gained its modern philosophical weight in 19th and 20th-century Europe, describing human consciousness standing forth in an unscripted world.
Word relationships
- experiential: Focuses on direct physical or emotional experience rather than cosmic or philosophical purpose.
- theoretical: Deals with abstract ideas rather than lived human existence.
Commonly confused with
- essential: 'Essential' means crucial or intrinsic, whereas 'existential' pertains to human existence and purpose.
Word family
- existentialism (noun): The philosophical movement emphasizing individual existence and freedom.
- existentially (adverb): In a manner that relates to fundamental existence.
Collocations
- existential threat
- existential dread
- existential angst
- existential crisis
Idioms & expressions
- existential crisis
Example sentences
- "The existential crisis forced her to re-evaluate her career choices and personal values." Philosophical analysis
- "Sartre argued that existential reality precedes any predefined essence." Literary commentary
Memory hook
Think of EXisting by Standing out in an empty room looking for purpose. Standing out in existence.
When not to use
Do not use merely to mean 'very important' or 'big'; reserve it for matters of fundamental survival or purpose.
Fun facts
- Jean-Paul Sartre popularized the adjective during the 1940s in post-war Paris cafes.
Related words
Explore more words
ontological, metaphysical, fatalistic, temporal, interpersonal, eternal
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