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existential
This term carries a heavy, often somber weight, evoking the internal struggle of an individual facing the void of meaninglessness or the crushing weight of absolute freedom. It is most frequently encountered in philosophical discourse regarding the human condition, where it describes a state of profound psychological tension or crisis.
In modern political and environmental rhetoric, the word has shifted toward a more literal sense of survival. When describing a threat as existential, it implies a binary outcome: total annihilation or continued existence. This usage removes the word from the realm of personal introspection and places it into the realm of systemic risk and global catastrophe.
Meanings
Relating to existence, especially the human experience of being alive and the search for meaning.
The philosopher explored the existential dread associated with the awareness of mortality.
Relating to a threat that could cause the complete destruction or extinction of a species, organization, or entity.
Climate change is viewed by many scientists as an existential threat to human civilization.