Meaning of "quiddity" in English

Quiddity is a term that refers to the inherent nature or essence of someone or something. It encapsulates the unique attributes that define the true character or quality of a subject. Often used in philosophical and literary contexts, quiddity emphasizes what makes an entity distinctly itself, as opposed to any surface characteristics or external appearances. The word encourages a deep, introspective look at the defining attributes that contribute to the very being of an object, idea, or person.

Meaning of "quiddité" in French

The term "quiddité" in French also describes the essence or intrinsic nature of something or someone. It highlights the core characteristics that set an entity apart, defining its true identity beyond mere appearances or superficial traits. Much like its English counterpart, quiddité is often used in philosophical or intellectual discussions to delve into the fundamental qualities that make up the true being of a person, object, or concept. This term encourages reflection on the essential nature of an entity.

Pronunciation of "quiddity" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈkwɪdɪti/.

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "quiddity" remains fairly consistent across different English-speaking regions, with slight variations in intonation or emphasis. In American English, the emphasis is usually on the first syllable, while British English may have a more elongated vowel sound in the first syllable.

Pronunciation of "quiddité" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /kɥidite/.

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "quiddité" remains consistent across French-speaking regions, though there may be subtle differences in the articulation of vowels or the emphasis on syllables depending on regional accents, particularly between European and Canadian French.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. Understanding the quiddity of happiness is a philosophical challenge.
    (Comprendre la quiddité du bonheur est un défi philosophique.)

  2. The artist captured the quiddity of the landscape in his painting.
    (L'artiste a capturé la quiddité du paysage dans sa peinture.)

  3. She pondered the quiddity of love while reading the old letters.
    (Elle a réfléchi à la quiddité de l'amour en lisant les vieilles lettres.)

  4. Historians strive to grasp the quiddity of past civilizations.
    (Les historiens s'efforcent de saisir la quiddité des civilisations passées.)

  5. The poet expressed the quiddity of autumn in her verses.
    (La poétesse a exprimé la quiddité de l'automne dans ses vers.)

  6. Philosophers debate the quiddity of human existence.
    (Les philosophes débattent de la quiddité de l'existence humaine.)

  7. Scientists seek to uncover the quiddity of the universe.
    (Les scientifiques cherchent à découvrir la quiddité de l'univers.)

  8. The novel explores the quiddity of identity in modern society.
    (Le roman explore la quiddité de l'identité dans la société moderne.)

  9. He reflected on the quiddity of freedom in his essay.
    (Il a réfléchi à la quiddité de la liberté dans son essai.)

  10. Teachers aim to understand the quiddity of each student.
    (Les enseignants visent à comprendre la quiddité de chaque élève.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "quiddity" in English

Synonyms: essence, nature, being, core, substance, soul, character, identity, quintessence, spirit.

Antonyms: exterior, facade, surface, appearance, shell, cover, mask, outer layer, superficiality, pretense.

Similar Words: core, heart, soul, essence, nature, substance, spirit, fundamental, intrinsic, innate.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "quiddité" in French

Synonyms: essence, nature, être, cœur, substance, âme, caractère, identité, quintessence, esprit.

Antonyms: apparence, façade, surface, extérieur, enveloppe, couverture, masque, superficialité, prétexte, simulacre.

Similar Words: cœur, esprit, essence, nature, substance, fondamental, intrinsèque, inné, âme, substrat.

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