equanimity

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "equanimity" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is an adjective which means a calm attitude and demeanor, even in difficult or upsetting situations. You can use it to describe someone's emotional state or a situation. For example: "He faced every obstacle with equanimity, remaining composed and unruffled despite the difficulties".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Your progress is measured only in how far you are able to face life's vicissitudes with equanimity, nothing more".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"The purpose of Vipassana is not to experience pleasurable sensations but rather to develop equanimity towards all sensations," Goenka says.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In the face of such aggressive surliness, could Blair maintain his willingness and equanimity?

The Guardian - Opinion

A little more able to face life's vicissitudes with equanimity, as Goenka would say.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Not everyone views the situation with equanimity.

The Guardian - Business

On his last ascent, bent double under his ropes at the age of almost 90, he conquered the mountain in four hours.Related items Mount Everest: Writers with altitudeMay 22nd 2003 Mountaineering lore: Rock facesJan 11th 2001Mr Inderbinen met life with the same equanimity as the mountains, his dry wit punctuating his monumental energy.

The Economist

No Indian or Chinese government could contemplate the possibility with equanimity.

The Economist

And the problem with the second option is that Asian central banks tend to focus on the short-dated end of the curve; the long-dated portion ought to be most market-sensitive.Meanwhile, the equity market seems to be reacting to all this talk of currency wars with equanimity.

The Economist

Before the weight loss their brains viewed the food with relative equanimity.

The Economist

JAGUAR drivers used to peering down sleek, long bonnets might be excused for showing equanimity in the face of life's little problems beyond their radiator grills.

The Economist

The FTSE 100 stockmarket index reacted with equanimity, finishing the day 1.3% higher.Perhaps investors had already factored the impact of a pandemic into their calculations.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "equanimity" to describe a state of mental calmness and emotional balance, particularly when facing stressful situations. It suggests a deliberate effort to remain composed.

Common error

Avoid using "equanimity" to simply mean happiness or excitement. It specifically refers to a balanced emotional state, not necessarily a positive one.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "equanimity" is that of a noun. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, representing a state of being. Ludwig confirms this, showcasing instances where "equanimity" embodies a quality or attribute.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Equanimity" signifies a state of mental calmness, particularly in challenging situations. As confirmed by Ludwig, this noun is grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in news, encyclopedic, and scientific contexts. While synonyms like "composure" and "calmness" offer similar meanings, "equanimity" suggests a deliberate and balanced emotional response. Remember to use "equanimity" accurately to describe a balanced emotional state and avoid confusing it with simple happiness or indifference.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

composure

Focuses more on maintaining a calm demeanor, especially in challenging situations.

calmness

Emphasizes a state of tranquility and absence of agitation.

even-temperedness

Highlights a consistent and balanced emotional state.

self-possession

Indicates control over one's emotions and behavior.

aplomb

Suggests confidence and grace under pressure.

level-headedness

Implies a practical and rational approach to situations.

serenity

Conveys a deep sense of peace and tranquility.

poise

Emphasizes grace and balance in both physical and emotional states.

tranquility

Focuses on a state of peacefulness and quietude.

imperturbability

Highlights the inability to be upset or agitated.

FAQs

How to use "equanimity" in a sentence?

Use "equanimity" to describe a state of mental calmness, for example: "She faced the challenges with remarkable "equanimity"."

What can I say instead of "equanimity"?

You can use alternatives like "composure", "calmness", or "self-possession" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "equanimity" and "apathy"?

"Equanimity" implies a controlled emotional state, while "apathy" suggests a lack of interest or concern. Equanimity is an active management of emotions, whereas apathy is a passive absence of emotion.

Is "equanimity" a positive trait?

Generally, yes. Maintaining "equanimity" allows for rational decision-making and reduces stress, but it's important to balance it with appropriate emotional responses.