for nihilistic ends

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for nihilistic ends" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or intentions that are aimed at achieving meaningless or destructive outcomes, often in a philosophical or critical context. Example: "The group's activities were criticized as being motivated for nihilistic ends, lacking any constructive purpose."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Indeed, groups have been distorting religious faith for nihilistic ends for centuries.

The Economist

"As people of faith we are summoned to push back at those who seek to distort religion for nihilistic ends".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Obama called on those in attendance to "push back against those who would distort our religion for their nihilistic ends," pointing to the actions of the "death cult" Islamic State, as well as the terror attacks in Paris and school massacre in Pakistan, during remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast.

Huffington Post

Significant sections have already been attracted to the nihilistic ends of the political spectrum, including varieties of anarchism and fascism.

The Guardian - Opinion

With Air Rocker this logic has surely reached its nihilistic end.

The Guardian - Music

But what those critics fail to understand is that in a world where the majority of young people feel so disempowered they no longer bother to vote, this party was no protest, merely a nihilistic end in itself.

The Guardian

Bin Laden whipped that resentment into Al Qaeda's capacity for nihilistic mass murder.

The New York Times

Ron Paul is a shibboleth for nihilistic hipsters.

Huffington Post

Instead, the director opts for nihilistic, disenfranchised characters (so much more relatable) and a resolutely queer approach.

Vice

Many of Hitchcock's murderers, Mr. Conrad argues, kill not out of "any personal desire for gain or vengeance" but for more nihilistic reasons.

The New York Times - Books

These groups are eager to use the crisis to sow more resentment toward Islamabad and Washington and win new adherents for their nihilistic cause.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for nihilistic ends" when you want to emphasize that an action or belief system is directed towards destruction and meaninglessness, particularly in philosophical or political discussions. It underscores a lack of positive purpose or value.

Common error

Avoid using "for nihilistic ends" in everyday conversation. The phrase is formal and philosophical, and substituting it with simpler terms like "for no reason" or "for destructive purposes" makes your communication more accessible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for nihilistic ends" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe the purpose or motivation behind an action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for nihilistic ends" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to express actions motivated by a rejection of values and a pursuit of destruction. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. Although rare, its use is primarily found in news and media contexts, suggesting a formal register. While the phrase effectively conveys a sense of meaninglessness and destruction, it's crucial to consider the context and audience to ensure clear communication. Simpler alternatives may be preferable in less formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with destructive intent

Emphasizes the intention behind the actions, focusing on the destructive aspect.

toward meaningless goals

Highlights the lack of purpose or value in the objectives being pursued.

aiming for annihilation

Focuses on total destruction and obliteration as the ultimate objective.

in pursuit of nothingness

Emphasizes the futility and emptiness of the endeavor.

seeking self-destruction

Highlights the self-destructive nature of the actions or intentions.

driven by despair

Focuses on the emotional state motivating the actions, highlighting hopelessness and negativity.

with no positive aim

Emphasizes the lack of any constructive or beneficial purpose.

motivated by cynicism

Highlights the distrust and skepticism that drive the actions.

bent on demolition

Focuses on the act of tearing down and destroying existing structures or systems.

acting out of spite

Emphasizes the malicious intent and desire to harm others.

FAQs

How can I use "for nihilistic ends" in a sentence?

You can use "for nihilistic ends" to describe motivations or actions lacking positive purpose, often in philosophical or political contexts. For example, "The group's activities were criticized as being motivated "for nihilistic ends", lacking any constructive purpose."

What are some alternatives to "for nihilistic ends"?

Alternatives include "with destructive intent", "toward meaningless goals", or "aiming for annihilation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "for nihilistic ends" grammatically correct?

Yes, "for nihilistic ends" is grammatically correct. The structure 'for' + adjective + 'ends' functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun.

What does "nihilistic" mean in the context of "for nihilistic ends"?

In this context, "nihilistic" refers to the rejection of all religious and moral principles, often with the belief that life is meaningless. Therefore, "for nihilistic ends" suggests actions or goals aligned with this philosophy of meaninglessness and destruction.