adjective
existential
eg-zih-STEN-shul/ˌeɡzɪˈstenʃl/
Concerned with existence.
Beneath the stars, the traveler reflects on existential questions.
Etymology
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
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
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
Similar words
- philosophical
- Covers broader questions, not just existence, purpose, or survival.
- life-threatening
- Specifically endangers life, rather than identity, purpose, or institutions.