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Epiphany

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A moment of sudden and profound realization or insight.
2. A revelation or discovery that alters one’s understanding or perspective on a subject.
3. In Christian tradition, the feast of Epiphany celebrates the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles, represented by the visit of the Magi.
4. A sudden clarity or understanding that leads to a new perspective or solution.

History and Origin

The word “epiphany” originates from the Greek word epiphaneia, meaning “appearance” or “manifestation.” It was initially used in religious contexts, particularly referring to the revelation of a divine being. Over time, the meaning broadened in English to encompass any sudden moment of realization or insight, not limited to religious experiences. The term is widely recognized in both spiritual and secular contexts today.

Detailed Explanation

An “epiphany” refers to an enlightening moment where a person gains a new understanding or perspective on something that was previously unclear. It is often a sudden realization, where everything clicks into place, leading to clarity. This moment of insight can happen in any context, such as in personal life, creative work, or professional challenges. The term is frequently used to describe a moment of deep understanding, often accompanied by a feeling of revelation or enlightenment. In religious contexts, particularly in Christianity, Epiphany marks the day when the Magi (Wise Men) visited the baby Jesus, symbolizing the manifestation of Christ to the world.

Example Sentences

1. After years of struggling with her career, she had an epiphany and decided to pursue her true passion for art.
2. The scientist experienced an epiphany while working late one night, leading to a groundbreaking discovery.
3. His epiphany about the meaning of life came during a solitary walk in the mountains.
4. The movie’s plot twist gave the audience an epiphany, changing their perspective on the characters.
5. After the long conversation, I had an epiphany about the true nature of my relationship.
6. The teacher’s explanation provided the student with an epiphany, making complex concepts easier to understand.
7. I had an epiphany when I realized that my success depended on believing in myself.
8. The novel ended with the protagonist having an epiphany that changed her entire life.
9. It wasn’t until later that I had an epiphany about how my actions had affected others.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Realization – A moment of sudden awareness or understanding.
2. Insight – A deep understanding of a situation or problem, often gained suddenly.
3. Revelation – A surprising or enlightening discovery that alters one’s view.
4. Awakening – A sudden understanding or realization that brings about a shift in awareness.
5. Discovery – The act of finding or realizing something previously unknown.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Enlightenment – The state of having gained profound knowledge or understanding, often used in spiritual contexts.
2. Clarification – The process of making something clear, often leading to a realization or epiphany.
3. Aha Moment – An informal expression for a sudden moment of realization or insight.
4. Breakthrough – A significant and sudden advancement in understanding or discovery.
5. Transformation – A profound change in perspective or understanding, often following an epiphany.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Revelatory – Something that reveals important information, often leading to an epiphany.
2. Lucid Moment – A clear and sudden moment of realization or understanding.
3. Flash of Insight – A quick and powerful moment of understanding, often equated with an epiphany.
4. Eureka Moment – A term used to describe a moment of sudden discovery or realization.
5. Moment of Clarity – A moment when something becomes clear, leading to new understanding.

Antonyms

1. Confusion
2. Misunderstanding
3. Ignorance
4. Unawareness
5. Obscurity