Definition

A person who believes in or supports the idea that only phenomena (things that can be observed) exist, and that objects do not exist independently of our perception of them.

Example

As a phenomenalist, she argued that our understanding of reality is shaped by our experiences and perceptions.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a phenomenalist?

No, I haven't. What is that?

It's someone who believes that objects only exist as perceptions in our minds.

Interesting! I guess that makes you think about reality in a different way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phenomenalist → It is formed from "phenomenon" (from Greek "phainomenon", meaning that which appears) and "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). A phenomenalist is someone who is concerned with phenomena or things as they appear to us.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who studies what 'appears' ('phenomenon') and is an 'expert' ('-ist') in that area.

Visually Confused Words