phenomenon
fuh-NAHM-uh-non
/fəˈnɒmɪnən/
A fact or situation that is observed to exist or happen, especially one whose cause is in question; in philosophy, an object of sensory perception.
In philosophy (Kantianism), a phenomenon is reality as experienced by human senses, contrasted with the thing-in-itself (noumenon).
The story behind the word. From Greek 'phainomenon' (that which appears), neuter present participle of 'phainesthai' (to appear), from 'phainein' (to show or bring to light). It came into English via Late Latin and French to mean an observable event.
Word relationships
- occurrence: 'Occurrence' simply means something that happens, while 'phenomenon' emphasizes being observed and studied.
- noumenon: In philosophy, a 'noumenon' is an object known through pure intellect without sensory perception.
Commonly confused with
- phenomena: 'Phenomenon' is singular; 'phenomena' is plural.
Word family
- phenomena (noun): Plural form of phenomenon.
- phenomenal (adjective): Remarkable, extraordinary, or relating to phenomena.
- phenomenology (noun): The philosophical study of structures of consciousness and experience.
Collocations
- natural phenomenon
- cultural phenomenon
- observable phenomenon
- rare phenomenon
Example sentences
- "Kant argued that human minds can only ever experience the phenomenon, never the underlying noumenon." Kantian philosophy
- "The Northern Lights are a spectacular natural phenomenon caused by solar particles." Natural science
Memory hook
PHENOMENON: A PHENOM (extraordinary thing) you can SEE appearing. An observable appearance or event.
When not to use
Plural is 'phenomena', not 'phenomenons'. Do not use 'phenomenon' as a plural noun.
Fun facts
- The word 'fantasy' comes from the exact same Greek root 'phainein' (to appear/show)!
Related words
Explore more words
observation, empirical, perceive, phenotype, illusion, objectivity
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