impersonalism
|im-per-son-al-ism|
🇺🇸
/ˌɪmpɚˈsɑnəlɪzəm/
🇬🇧
/ˌɪmpəˈsɒnəlɪzəm/
emphasis on non-personalness
Etymology
'impersonalism' originates from English, formed by adding the suffix '-ism' to 'impersonal'; 'impersonal' itself comes from Latin elements 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'personalis' (from 'persona') meaning 'of a person'.
'impersonalism' was coined in modern English by combining 'impersonal' (which came into English via Old French/Middle English from Latin 'persona') with the suffix '-ism' (from Greek '-ismos' through Latin and French), resulting in the modern noun 'impersonalism'.
Initially it referred simply to the quality or condition of being impersonal ('not personal'); over time the term broadened to include a doctrinal/philosophical stance (emphasis on an impersonal ultimate), a linguistic tendency (use of impersonal constructions), and a behavioral disposition (emotional detachment).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a philosophical or theological doctrine that ultimate reality (or the highest principle) is impersonal rather than a personal deity or being.
Impersonalism in some Eastern philosophies asserts that the ultimate principle is an impersonal absolute rather than a personal god.
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Noun 2
the linguistic tendency or practice of using impersonal constructions (sentences without a specific personal subject), such as dummy 'it' or passive/impersonal verbs.
The language's impersonalism is visible in frequent use of impersonal constructions like 'It is said that...' instead of naming an agent.
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Noun 3
a behavioral disposition or tendency to remain detached, formal, or not personally involved in relationships or interactions.
His impersonalism made it difficult for colleagues to feel close to him.
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Last updated: 2025/10/13 09:33