Élan vital meaning

The élan vital refers to a vital force or energy that drives life and evolution.


Élan vital definitions

Word backwards nalé lativ
Part of speech élan vital is a noun phrase.
Syllabic division é-lan vi-tal
Plural The plural of élan vital is élan vitals.
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) e,a,i
Consonants (4) l,n,v,t

The concept of élan vital was introduced by the French philosopher Henri Bergson in the early 20th century. It translates to "vital impulse" or "life force" and refers to the creative energy that drives all living beings.

Understanding Élan Vital

Bergson believed that traditional scientific explanations of life fell short of capturing its true essence. He argued that life was not simply a mechanistic process, but rather a dynamic force that continuously evolves and adapts.

The Essence of Life

According to Bergson, élan vital is the driving force behind the evolutionary process, guiding organisms to develop new forms and behaviors in response to their environment. This creative energy is what separates living beings from inanimate objects.

The Creative Impulse

For Bergson, élan vital is not a tangible entity, but rather a metaphysical concept that transcends material reality. It is the source of all change and innovation in the natural world, inspiring growth, adaptation, and complexity.

Implications of Élan Vital

While Bergson's ideas were met with skepticism from some in the scientific community, his concept of élan vital has had a lasting impact on philosophy and biology. It continues to influence discussions about the nature of life and the mechanisms driving evolutionary processes.


Élan vital Examples

  1. The scientist proposed that the mysterious force driving evolution was the élan vital.
  2. Some believe that creativity is fueled by an individual's élan vital.
  3. The artist's masterpiece seemed to capture the essence of élan vital.
  4. The novel explored the concept of élan vital through its characters' actions.
  5. He approached every challenge with a sense of élan vital, determined to succeed.
  6. The dancer moved with such élan vital that the audience was captivated.
  7. The CEO credited the company's success to the team's élan vital and dedication.
  8. The professor's lecture on élan vital sparked a lively debate among students.
  9. The explorer felt a surge of élan vital as he reached the summit of the mountain.
  10. The politician's speech was filled with passion and élan vital, inspiring the crowd.


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  • Updated 01/04/2024 - 23:23:55