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eudaemonia

English → EnglishformalliteraryInstant · from the shared dictionary
eudaemonia

Eudaemonia refers to a state of human flourishing, excellence, or living well, often associated with the philosophy of Aristotle. Unlike the modern understanding of "happiness" as a fleeting emotion or temporary pleasure, this concept describes a long-term, objective state of being that results from living a virtuous life and fulfilling one's potential. In academic or philosophical discussions, it is used to distinguish the "good life" from mere hedonism. You will mostly encounter this term in ethics, psychology, or high-level intellectual discourse, where it serves as a sophisticated way to talk about deep-seated well-being rather than just feeling good in the moment.

In conversation

Discussing philosophy at a cafe

I’ve been reading Aristotle lately, and his take on eudaemonia really stuck with me.

I’ve been reading Aristotle lately, and his take on eudaemonia really stuck with me.

It’s a tough concept to grasp, isn't it? It's so much more than just being happy.

It’s a tough concept to grasp, isn't it? It's so much more than just being happy.

Used to contrast philosophical fulfillment with simple mood.

A psychology lecture

When we study well-being, we have to distinguish between hedonic pleasure and eudaemonia.

When we study well-being, we have to distinguish between hedonic pleasure and eudaemonia.

So, eudaemonia is more about purpose than enjoyment?

So, eudaemonia is more about purpose than enjoyment?

Used in a professional, academic context.

Examples

  1. She sought a life defined by eudaemonia rather than temporary thrills.

    She sought a life defined by eudaemonia rather than temporary thrills.

  2. Aristotle argued that eudaemonia is the highest human good, achieved through the exercise of reason.

    Aristotle argued that eudaemonia is the highest human good, achieved through the exercise of reason.

  3. The pursuit of eudaemonia requires the cultivation of virtues that align one's actions with their deeper potential.

    The pursuit of eudaemonia requires the cultivation of virtues that align one's actions with their deeper potential.

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