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View synonyms for élan vital
élan vital
[ French ey-lahn vee-tal ]
noun
- (especially in Bergsonian philosophy) the creative force within an organism that is responsible for growth, change, and necessary or desirable adaptations.
élan vital
/ elɑ̃ vital /
noun
- a creative principle held by Henri Bergson to be present in all organisms and responsible for evolution Compare Bergsonism
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Word History and Origins
Origin of élan vital1
1905–10; < French: literally, vital ardor
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Word History and Origins
Origin of élan vital1
literally: vital impetus
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Example Sentences
Bergson describes an élan vital—a living impetus—determining such phenomena.
From Project Gutenberg
The "élan vital" of Bergson and the theory of Joad are modern reiterations of this conception.
From Project Gutenberg
Yet I can see no ground, except a desire to flatter oneself, for not crediting the élan vital with some such digestive intention.
From Project Gutenberg
Their élan vital is no longer theirs, for in this rough world to live is to kill.
From Project Gutenberg
Libido: Life-force, élan vital, or (restricted) the energy of the sex-instinct.
From Project Gutenberg
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