What does solipsistically mean?
Solipsistically is an adverb describing behaviour or thought marked by extreme self-absorption. It implies that a person is so focused on their own perceptions, needs, or identity that other people, experiences, or external realities are treated as secondary or ignored. The adverb is especially associated with solipsism, the philosophical belief that the self is the only conscious reality, but it is also commonly used in ordinary criticism to describe self-centred attitudes. A solipsistically placed individual may assume that nobody else understands their situation, reject evidence that challenges their perspective, or treat conversation chiefly as an opportunity to discuss themselves. Because the word carries a strongly negative connotation, it is generally used to characterise rather than neutrally explain behaviour. In everyday speech, "selfishly" or "self-centredly" may be more suitable, while "solipsistically" gives the criticism a more formal and psychologically suggestive tone.
adverbIn a solipsistic manner; in a way characterized by extreme self-absorption or the belief that one is the only conscious reality.
- In a highly self-centred, self-absorbed manner, often implying that one's own perceptions and concerns are the only ones that matter.
"She answered his concerns solipsistically, assuming that no one else could understand her experience."
"The novel portrays a solipsistically isolated artist who gradually loses touch with the wider world."
"His response was solipsistically defensive: instead of considering the criticism, he focused entirely on how it affected him."
Solipsistically describes a worldview in which the self becomes the centre of the entire universe.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does solipsistically come from?
The word derives from solipsism, which combines Latin solus, meaning "alone", with the Greek suffix -ipsis, associated with a condition or belief, and ultimately with Greek -psistēs, meaning "one who perceives". Solipsism developed as a philosophical term for the position that the self is the only knowable reality. The adverb solipsistically was formed by adding the standard adverbial suffix -istically to that base term.
How solipsistically is actually used
Usually critical or disapproving. It is more intellectually formal than everyday expressions such as "selfishly" or "self-centredly", and it often suggests a broader, more entrenched pattern of thought or behaviour.
Easily confused with solipsistically
Solipsism is the philosophical doctrine or belief that the self is the only reality, whereas solipsistically describes conduct or thought expressed in that way.
Egocentric means primarily concerned with oneself but does not necessarily imply the philosophical claim that no other reality exists.