meaning-of-life-crisis
/ˈmiː.nɪŋ əv laɪf ˈkraɪ.sɪs/ IELTSAcademic
noun
an informal phrase for a period when someone feels confused or upset because they are asking what their life is for. It often happens during stress, big change, or growing older.
- He had a meaning-of-life crisis after leaving his job.
- She went through a meaning-of-life crisis in her thirties.
- The trip made him question everything, like a meaning-of-life crisis.
Adinary Nuance
A meaning-of-life crisis is stronger and more personal than simple sadness or stress. It is close to an identity crisis, but it focuses more on purpose and life direction. People use it informally when someone is questioning why they exist or what really matters.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- khủng hoảng ý nghĩa sống
- Spanish
- crisis existencial
- Chinese
- 存在危机
- Japanese
- 人生の意味の危機
- Korean
- 삶의 의미 위기
Etymology
This phrase is a modern English compound built from “meaning of life” and “crisis.” It reflects a common idea in psychology and everyday speech about deep life questioning.
Common phrases
have a meaning-of-life crisisgo through a meaning-of-life crisisa full meaning-of-life crisis
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is meaning-of-life-crisis a formal phrase?
- No. It is informal and usually used in conversation, not in formal writing.
- What is the difference between meaning-of-life-crisis and identity crisis?
- An identity crisis is about who you are. A meaning-of-life crisis is about why your life matters.
- Can I use this phrase in IELTS speaking?
- Yes, if you mean deep life questions. Use it naturally and with the right context.
- Is it a common everyday phrase?
- It is understandable, but people more often say “existential crisis” or “midlife crisis.”