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Nihilistic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

nihilistic

/ˌnaɪəˈlɪstɪk/ /ˌnʌɪ(h)ɪˈlɪstɪk/

Definition:

Rejecting all religious and moral principles, often believing life is meaningless.

Synonyms:

pessimistic, cynical, despairing, fatalistic

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

optimistic, hopeful, idealistic

Common Collocations:

nihilistic philosophy, nihilistic attitude, nihilistic worldview

Derivatives:

nihilism, nihilist

Usage Tips:

Use "nihilistic" to describe a rejection of meaning or values, often in philosophical or artistic contexts.

Common Phrases:

"nihilistic outlook, " "nihilistic tendencies, " "nihilistic despair"

Etymology:

Derived from Latin "nihil" (nothing), influenced by German philosophy in the 19th century.

Examples:

  • 1. His nihilistic views left him indifferent to societal norms.
  • 2. The film portrayed a nihilistic future where hope had vanished.
  • 3. She dismissed his nihilistic arguments as overly pessimistic.
  • 4. The artist's work reflected a deeply nihilistic perspective on life.

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