Well-read · Philosophy & belief · Character
Solipsism: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Solipsism noun. The idea that only one's own mind is sure to exist; also an extreme self-absorption that ignores others.
How to say it
SOL-ip-siz-um/ˈsɒlɪpsɪz(ə)m/
4 syllables, stressed on the first (SOL). Forms: solipsistic, solipsist.
Solipsism in a sentence
Philosophy students love solipsism until they realise it means nobody will read their essays.
His solipsism was breathtaking: he described the flood only in terms of his ruined shoes.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- self-absorption
- egocentrism
- self-centredness
Opposite:
- altruism
Where solipsism comes from
From Latin solus, alone, and ipse, self.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
His _____ was breathtaking: he described the flood only in terms of his ruined shoes.
- solipsism
- casuistry
- premise
Show the answer
solipsism: His solipsism was breathtaking: he described the flood only in terms of his ruined shoes.