existentialist

[ˌeɡzɪˈstenʃ(ə)lɪst]

existentialist Definition

a person who emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, and who sees human existence as having a purpose or meaning only because of the individual's choice and action.

Using existentialist: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "existentialist" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Jean-Paul Sartre is one of the most famous existentialists.

  • Example

    Existentialist philosophy emphasizes the importance of personal freedom and choice.

  • Example

    The protagonist in the novel is an existentialist who struggles with the meaning of life.

existentialist Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with existentialist

  • a moment at which an individual questions the very foundations of their life: whether this life has any meaning, purpose, or value

    Example

    After losing his job, he experienced an existential crisis and began to question the direction of his life.

  • a threat to the continued existence of something, especially a group or community

    Example

    Climate change is an existential threat to humanity.

  • an overwhelming feeling of anxiety or fear in the face of the unknown or uncertain aspects of life

    Example

    She was consumed by existential dread, worrying about the meaning of life and her place in the world.

Origins of existentialist

from French 'existentialisme', from 'existence'

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Summary: existentialist in Brief

An 'existentialist' [ˌeɡzɪˈstenʃ(ə)lɪst] is a person who emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, and who sees human existence as having a purpose or meaning only because of the individual's choice and action. It is a philosophy that emphasizes personal freedom and choice, and it is often associated with Jean-Paul Sartre. The term extends into phrases like 'existential crisis,' denoting a moment of questioning the very foundations of one's life.