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Nominalism - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Nominalism is a philosophical belief that abstract concepts, like numbers or universals, do not exist as real entities but are only names or labels created by humans for convenience.

nominalism

/ˈnɑmənəˌlɪzəm/ /ˈnɒmɪnəlɪzəm/

Definition:

A philosophical doctrine that universals or abstract concepts are merely names without independent existence.

Synonyms:

conceptualism, terminism, formalism

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

realism, essentialism

Common Collocations:

philosophical nominalism, medieval nominalism, nominalism debate, nominalism vs realism

Derivatives:

nominalist, nominalistic

Usage Tips:

Use "nominalism" when discussing philosophy to denote the rejection of universal abstractions in favor of individual instances.

Common Phrases:

"nominalism in philosophy, " "debate over nominalism, " "nominalism vs conceptualism"

Etymology:

Derived from Latin "nomen" (name), reflecting its focus on names over abstract realities.

Examples:

  • 1. The philosopher defended nominalism in his latest paper.
  • 2. Nominalism challenges the existence of universal truths beyond language.
  • 3. Her thesis explores medieval nominalism and its critics.
  • 4. Teachers often simplify nominalism for introductory philosophy courses.

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