existentialism

Existentialism in its purest form is any philosophy which states that existence precedes essence; that is to say, that there is no inherent purpose in life (though normally this is not carried through to nihilism.). It also states that the physical world does not necessarily precede the conscious state, as a conscious mind must find itself in a world to attain consciousness in any meaningful state.

A philosophy which emphasizes the importance of choice. It suggests that we only exist (as human beings) if we make our own decisions independently of outside influence. However, while this freedom allows us complete control over our own destinies, it also suggests that we are the sole control over our destinies and are, as a result, isolated from God, society, and ourselves. This leads many to the conclusion that existentialism is depressing.

Having to do with existence. More specifically, one way it is used is to mean having to do with state of being as opposed to truth or knowledge. An "existentialist" is more concerned with how to "be" than with what is true. A good example is Albert Camus's "The Plague", in which the character determines that we can't know the meaning of life and suffering, but we should just do what we can.

A philosophy which emphasizes the significance of existence and those actions which enable one to experience their own existence, such as making decisions or feeling emotions.

-or-

loneliness.

"yolo" for philosophers

there is no spoon

you can use this word in pretty much any context and it will make you sound pretentious and/or confuse the person you're talking to.

it's a technique refined and highly over-utilized by pseudo-intellectuals.