hedonism
3 antonyms and opposites of hedonism, grouped by meaning.
Noun — The pursuit of pleasure and enjoyment as the main aim of life, often with little regard for restraint or consequences.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
The pursuit of pleasure and enjoyment as the main aim of life, often with little regard for restraint or consequences.
“The resort sold a weekend of pure hedonism: no clocks, no plans, no rules.”
Opposites
2. noun formal
In philosophy, the doctrine that pleasure is the highest good and that actions are right in so far as they produce it.
“Utilitarian thinkers built on a form of hedonism in which the greatest pleasure for the greatest number defines the good.”
Antonyms
How to Use Hedonism
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Neutral in philosophy, but usually mildly disapproving in everyday use.
Etymology
From Greek hēdonē, meaning 'pleasure', with the suffix -ism.
Full origin of hedonism →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between hedonism and epicureanism?
Hedonism in its popular sense means chasing pleasure and intense enjoyment. Epicureanism, though technically a kind of hedonism, taught that the greatest pleasure comes from moderation, friendship and freedom from pain rather than indulgence. In practice the two words now point in almost opposite directions.
Is hedonism a negative word?
Usually, yes, in everyday English it carries a note of disapproval, suggesting excess and a lack of responsibility. In philosophical writing it is a neutral technical label for a family of ethical theories.
What is the opposite of hedonism?
Asceticism is the clearest opposite: the deliberate denial of pleasure and comfort, often for spiritual or moral reasons. Stoicism is also frequently contrasted with it, since it values self-control over enjoyment.