-alis

of, relating to

Forms

-alis
-aris — Latin variant especially used when the stem already contained l, avoiding a repeated l sound.
-al — English ending borrowed through French or directly from Latin.
-ar — English ending continuing Latin -aris.

Origin

An older Latin adjective-forming suffix; its more remote ancestry is uncertain.

Note

Expresses a relationship without specifying its kind: material, place, purpose, and other connections are possible.

73 / 291

adjective

existential

eg-zih-STEN-shul/ˌeɡzɪˈstenʃl/

Concerned with existence.

Beneath the stars, the traveler reflects on existential questions.

Young Black adult alone at crossroads under vast starry sky, reflective.

Etymology

existentiLatinexistence; reality

+alLatinof, relating to

Existentia supplies the idea of existence, so the adjective initially meant simply “pertaining to existence.” Its philosophical use focuses that broad meaning on human life and the questions raised by being alive.

In context

Don Carveth27:02

little drive us a little mad human malaise Freud talked about human malaise that is a level of frustration and suffering that is nobody's fault he didn't use the word existential but I think that's what he meant

The Oedipus Complex

More examples

After retiring, she struggles with existential questions about her purpose.
The island nation views rising seas as an existential danger.
His existential crisis leaves him wondering why anything matters.

Forms

existential

exist verb — To be real or remain alive.

existence noun — The state of being or living.

Similar words

philosophical: Covers broader questions, not just existence, purpose, or survival.
life-threatening: Specifically endangers life, rather than identity, purpose, or institutions.