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xis
ten
tial
1
derived from experience or the experience of existence
Synonyms:
2
regarding human's existence and its concerning matters
- The protagonist in the novel suffers from existential dread and a feeling of disconnection.
- The philosopher's writings explored deep existential themes like death, freedom, and isolation.
3
related to the philosophical movement that focuses on individual existence, freedom, and choice, often emphasizing the absurdity or meaninglessness of life
- The existentialist philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre famously declared, "Existence precedes essence."
- In existential literature, characters often grapple with the absurdity of existence and the search for meaning.
- The philosopher Nietzsche is often associated with existential themes, particularly his concept of the "will to power" and the idea of creating one's own values.
- Existential questions about the meaning of life often arise during moments of crisis or introspection.