existentially

Existentially is an English adverb formed from the adjective existential. It relates to existence or to themes associated with existentialism, particularly concerns about meaning, freedom, mortality, authenticity, and the human condition.

Linguistic notes: Existential derives from late Latin existere, via French existential and English, with the -ly suffix creating the adverb. As an adverb, existentially modifies verbs or adjectives, e.g., "existentially meaningful," "existentially anxious," or "existentially oriented questions."

Usage: In philosophy and literature, existentially is used when describing topics that center on human existence rather than objective facts. In everyday language, the term can signal that a matter touches on existence, purpose, or identity, though it may be used more loosely for rhetorical emphasis.

Context: Existentialism, a major philosophical movement, examines individual freedom, responsibility, and authenticity in the face of mortality and absurdity. Notable figures include Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Martin Heidegger.

See also: existentialism, existential crisis, existence, ontology.