transcendental: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
lowformal
Quick answer
What does “transcendental” mean?
Relating to a spiritual or abstract realm that transcends ordinary limits or experience.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Relating to a spiritual or abstract realm that transcends ordinary limits or experience.
In philosophy, pertaining to Kant's theory of knowledge; in mathematics, referring to numbers that are not algebraic, like π or e.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or meaning differences; both use the same form.
Connotations
Similar connotations of abstraction and spirituality; in the US, more associated with Transcendental Meditation.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in American English due to cultural references like Transcendental Meditation.
Grammar
How to Use “transcendental” in a Sentence
often followed by 'to' as in 'transcendental to human understanding'used attributively as in 'transcendental nature'Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “transcendental” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He aims to transcend his limitations through meditation.
American English
- She hopes to transcend the ordinary in her artistic work.
adverb
British English
- She spoke transcendently about the universe's mysteries.
American English
- The music was performed transcendently, evoking deep emotions.
adjective
British English
- The transcendental aspects of the debate were fascinating.
American English
- His transcendental approach to science is innovative.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; might be used metaphorically for 'innovative or beyond standard practices'.
Academic
Common in philosophy, mathematics, and religious studies.
Everyday
Infrequent; typically in discussions about meditation or abstract ideas.
Technical
In mathematics, specific to transcendental numbers and functions.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “transcendental”
- Mispronouncing as /trænˈsɛndəntl/ (stress error)
- Confusing with 'transcendent' which means surpassing rather than relating to conditions of experience.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, 'transcendent' means surpassing or exceeding, while 'transcendental' relates to conditions of possible experience or abstract realms.
Transcendental numbers, such as π or e, are real numbers that are not roots of any non-zero polynomial equation with rational coefficients.
Transcendental Meditation is a specific meditation technique popularized by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, focusing on mantra repetition.
It is rare in everyday language and is mostly reserved for formal, academic, or spiritual discussions.
Relating to a spiritual or abstract realm that transcends ordinary limits or experience.
Transcendental is usually formal in register.
Transcendental: in British English it is pronounced /ˌtrænsɛnˈdɛntl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌtrænsənˈdɛntl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Transcendental Meditation (as a fixed term)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'transcend' + 'mental' – going beyond the mental or ordinary limits.
Conceptual Metaphor
UP or BEYOND metaphor, as in surpassing physical or intellectual boundaries.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'transcendental' most commonly used?