How Do You Spell RESSENTIMENT?

Pronunciation: [ɹɪsˈɛntɪmənt] (IPA)

Ressentiment is a French loanword that is often written with an extra "s" - resentment. The correct spelling is pronounced as /rəsɑ̃timɑ̃/ with a silent "s" and an emphasis on the second syllable. Its meaning refers to a long-standing bitterness or grudge that one holds against someone or something. Despite its familiarity, the word doesn't have the same weight as its French counterpart which embodied a philosophical undercurrent related to Nietzsche's ideas of morality and power.

RESSENTIMENT Meaning and Definition

1. Ressentiment is a complex and multifaceted term originating from French, which refers to an intense feeling of resentment, bitterness, and deep-seated hostility towards someone or something that is perceived to have caused injustice or harm. It is an emotional reaction resulting from a perceived sense of superiority, powerlessness, and envy. Ressentiment is distinct from ordinary anger as it often involves a long-lasting and obsessive resentment towards the perceived oppressor or antagonist.

   The term was popularized by philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, who explored its psychological and philosophical implications. According to Nietzsche, ressentiment arises from a deep-seated dissatisfaction with one's own condition or perceived lack of power, leading to a desire for revenge and an attempt to degrade or undermine the object of resentment. It is often associated with feelings of self-righteousness and victimhood.

   Ressentiment can manifest in various forms, ranging from personal relationships to social and political contexts. It is often accompanied by a sense of moral indignation and a desire for justice or retribution. Individuals experiencing ressentiment may harbor intense and obsessive feelings, often leading to destructive behaviors or a complete inversion of values. It is a pervasive and toxic emotion that can deeply affect personal well-being and social dynamics.

   In summary, ressentiment is a powerful and complex emotional state characterized by deep-seated bitterness and resentment towards a perceived oppressor, arising from feelings of powerlessness and envy. It is a concept that encompasses psychological, social, and philosophical dimensions.

Common Misspellings for RESSENTIMENT

• reesentiment
• reasentiment
• Resantiment
• dessentiment

Etymology of RESSENTIMENT

The word "ressentiment" can be traced back to French, where it originated. It is derived from the verb "ressentir", meaning "to feel" or "to experience". The term gained prominence through the writings of the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche in the late 19th century. In Nietzsche's work, he used "ressentiment" to describe a specific kind of inwardly directed, hostile resentment that arises from a sense of powerlessness and envy.

Plural form of RESSENTIMENT is RESSENTIMENTS