Nihilistic

Adjective

Definition: Rejecting or denying the existence of values or moral principles, often resulting in a belief that life and existence have no intrinsic meaning or purpose.

Synonyms: Pessimistic, Skeptical, Cynical

Antonyms: Optimistic, Hopeful, Idealistic

Examples:
  • He had a nihilistic attitude towards societal conventions and norms.
  • The protagonist's nihilistic worldview led to a sense of apathy and detachment.
Mnemonics:
  • 'Nihilistic' sounds like 'nihil', which means nothing or zero in Latin, reflecting the belief in the absence of meaning or value.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word 'nihilistic' derives from the Latin term 'nihil', which means 'nothingness' or 'nothing'. It is derived from the Latin word 'nihilum', meaning 'nothing'.

Historical Usage:

The concept of nihilism emerged in the mid-19th century, primarily through the writings of Russian author Ivan Turgenev and German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. It gained prominence during the existentialist movement of the 20th century.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Nihilistic worldview"

Explanation:

Referring to a perspective or belief system that rejects traditional values, morals, and ideals, considering them meaningless or insignificant.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing nihilism with pessimism.

Explanation:

Although nihilism can be associated with pessimism, it goes beyond a mere negative outlook on life and instead challenges the existence of objective values and meanings. Pessimism focuses on a negative interpretation of life, while nihilism challenges the notion of any inherent meaning.

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