… a term that captures the transient and fleeting nature of life.
Meaning:
Ephemeral (pronounced: /ɪˈfɛmərəl/) refers to something that lasts for a very short time, something fleeting or temporary.
Etymology:
The word comes from the Greek ἐφήμερος (ephemeros), meaning "lasting only one day," formed by the combination of epi- (meaning "upon") and hemera (meaning "day").
Example:
"The beauty of the sunset was ephemeral, fading as quickly as it arrived."
(eh-FEE-meh-ros)
The Greek word εφήμερος captures the same concept, referring to something short-lived or transient. It’s a reminder that even in ancient Greece, the passage of time was appreciated for its fleeting moments.
Example in Greek:
"Η ομορφιά της αυγής είναι εφήμερη."
(The beauty of the dawn is ephemeral.)
(duǎn zàn)
In Chinese, 短暂 (duǎn zàn) is used to describe something that is brief or temporary, much like the English term ephemeral. It is often applied to describe fleeting moments or short-lived experiences.
Example in Chinese:
"夕阳的美丽是短暂的。"
(The beauty of the sunset is ephemeral.)
The concept of ephemeral often evokes a sense of both beauty and sadness. It reminds us that the most precious moments in life may be the most fleeting.
Regardless of whatever it is…
It is true that everything shall pass.