Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/æŋkst/

Definitions

• A deep, often irrational sense of anxiety, dread, or inner turmoil, typically accompanied by feelings of uncertainty and discomfort.
• A psychological state characterized by a pervasive sense of dread or existential worry.
• A general feeling of unease or dissatisfaction, often tied to personal or societal issues.

Usage Examples

• "She could not escape the constant angst that haunted her thoughts."
• "The novel explores the angst of young people facing an uncertain future."
• "His angst about the future consumed him, affecting every decision he made."

Etymology

From the German word "Angst," meaning fear or anxiety, which originates from Middle High German "angst," derived from Old High German "angst," meaning narrowness or distress. It has been used in English since the early 20th century to describe existential or psychological anxiety, particularly in philosophical and literary contexts.

Synonyms

• Anxiety
• Dread
• Fear
• Apprehension
• Unease
• Worry
• Distress

Antonyms

• Calm
• Peace
• Serenity
• Contentment
• Assurance
• Confidence

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In German, the word "Angst" is pronounced with a strong "a" sound as /ɑŋkst/.
• In American English, the pronunciation may slightly soften to /æŋkst/ with a more relaxed tone in casual speech.
• In Scandinavian languages, like Swedish, the word "ångest" is pronounced with a distinct "ng" sound, /ɔŋˈɛst/.

Historical Usage

The term "Angst" was first used in English in the early 20th century, borrowed from German. It became particularly significant in the context of existential philosophy, especially in the works of Søren Kierkegaard and later, Martin Heidegger. In the 20th century, it was used to describe a more modern psychological condition of deep, existential anxiety, often tied to the alienation and disillusionment felt by individuals in the modern world. It remains a key concept in existentialism and modern psychology.

Cultural Nuances

In Western cultures, angst is often associated with a sense of disillusionment, particularly among youth. It became a prominent term during the 20th century, particularly in the context of existential philosophy and the disillusionment of post-war generations. In modern pop culture, angst is often depicted as a characteristic of young people struggling to understand themselves or their place in society. In contrast, some non-Western cultures may frame similar feelings within the context of traditional values, spiritual crises, or societal expectations.

More Information

Angst is not merely a passing feeling of fear or anxiety; it is often a deeper, existential experience related to concerns about one's place in the world, the future, and the meaning of life. It is commonly discussed in philosophical circles, particularly in existentialism, where it is seen as an inevitable aspect of the human condition. Philosophers like Kierkegaard used angst to describe a feeling of dread that accompanies the realization of one's absolute freedom and the responsibility that comes with it. Today, angst is often discussed in the context of mental health, where it can be linked to conditions such as anxiety disorders and depression, though it retains its existential roots in literature and philosophy.