ataraxis
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A state of peacefulness, tranquility, and freedom from mental stress or anxiety; a condition of inner calm and serenity.
Usage
The word "ataraxis" is a formal and somewhat rare term, primarily used in literary, psychological, or philosophical contexts to describe a profound state of mental calm. It denotes a complete absence of agitation, worry, or emotional disturbance.
Examples
- After weeks of meditation, she finally achieved a state of perfect ataraxis.
- The quiet countryside offered him the ataraxis he desperately sought after his hectic city life.
- The goal of the philosophy was not happiness, but ataraxis—a peaceful freedom from all troubling passions.
Advanced Usage
- "To achieve/attain ataraxis": This is the most common construction, emphasizing the process of reaching this calm state.
- Through disciplined practice, the monk sought to attain ataraxis.
- "A state of ataraxis": Often used to specify the nature of the condition.
- The medication helped induce a state of ataraxis in the agitated patient.
Variants and Related Words
- Ataractic (Adjective): Having a tranquilizing effect; tending to calm or soothe.
- The music had an ataractic quality that eased his mind.
- Ataraxia (Noun): A closely related term, often used interchangeably with "ataraxis," though it can carry additional philosophical nuance from Stoicism and Pyrrhonism, implying a state of serene indifference to external disturbances.
Synonyms
- Peace of mind: Freedom from worry.
- Serenity: The state of being calm, peaceful, and untroubled.
- Tranquility: A quality or state of being quiet and peaceful.
- Repose: A state of rest, sleep, or tranquility.
- Equanimity: Mental calmness, composure, and evenness of temper, especially in a difficult situation.
Antonyms
- Anxiety: A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease.
- Agitation: A state of anxiety or nervous excitement.
- Stress: A state of mental or emotional strain.
- Turmoil: A state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty.
- Disquiet: A feeling of anxiety or worry.
Noun
- the absence of mental stress or anxiety