Another Word For Catharsis
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Meaning
The term 'catharsis' refers to the emotional release or purification that one experiences, typically through art, literature, or dramatic expression. It's like a psychological cleansing that helps an individual to confront and process emotions, leading to a sense of relief or renewal. For example, many people find that crying during a sad movie allows them to release pent-up feelings, which can be cathartic.
Synonyms
- Release
- Purification
- Cleansing
- Relief
- Liberation
- Emotional release
Antonyms
- Suppression
- Repression
- Retention
- Holding back
- Restraint
Etymology
The word 'catharsis' comes from the Greek word 'katharsis,' which means "cleansing" or "purification." The root 'kathar,' which means "clean" or "pure," reflects the idea of removing impurities or unwanted feelings.
Examples of Usage
- After a long week of stress, attending the concert felt like a catharsis for me.
- Writing in her journal provided a much-needed catharsis to process her emotions.
- The movie's intense final scene offered viewers a catharsis that left them in tears.
- Therapy can often lead to personal catharsis, allowing individuals to confront and heal past traumas.
- Many artists seek catharsis through their creative work, expressing feelings they find difficult to articulate otherwise.