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ex nihilo

Latin Phrases
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

Meaning “out of nothing,” it refers to creation from nothingness. It signifies absolute origin.

Detailed Definition
Ex nihilo evokes theological and philosophical debates about creation. Poets employ it to dramatise genesis, imagination, or divine power. The phrase lends metaphysical weight, contrasting void with emergence and highlighting the mystery of artistic or cosmic beginnings.
Example
Example in poetry:
A creation poem could describe the universe arising ex nihilo; A philosophical sonnet may question whether art truly springs ex nihilo; A devotional lyric might praise divine power to create ex nihilo; A modern poem could portray hope emerging ex nihilo from despair.
Additional Notes
Ex nihilo evokes theological creation and philosophical debates about origins. In poetry, it underscores the mystery of artistic invention or divine power. The phrase often heightens metaphysical themes and contrasts void with emergence. Students might examine how poets frame creativity as spontaneous or rooted in prior tradition.
Also Known As
Creation ex nihilo Out of nothing
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