Sisyphean meaning

Sisyphean means endless and futile, like the never-ending task of rolling a boulder up a hill only to have it roll back down again in Greek mythology.


Sisyphean definitions

Word backwards naehpysiS
Part of speech adjective
Syllabic division Sis-y-phe-an
Plural The plural of the word Sisyphean is Sisyphean. It remains the same in both singular and plural forms, as it is an adjective derived from the name Sisyphus.
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) i,e,a
Consonants (6) s,y,p,h,n

Have you ever heard of the term Sisyphean? This word originates from the Greek myth of a man named Sisyphus, who was condemned to roll a boulder up a hill, only for it to roll back down every time he neared the top. The term Sisyphean is often used to describe a task that is laborious and seemingly endless, much like Sisyphus' eternal struggle.

The Meaning of Sisyphean

When we refer to something as Sisyphean, we are highlighting the futility and frustration that can accompany certain endeavors. It implies a sense of never-ending repetition and struggle without any hope of success. Tasks that are considered Sisyphean are typically arduous, unrewarding, and ultimately pointless.

Examples of Sisyphean Tasks

Some examples of Sisyphean tasks in modern life might include fighting against systemic injustices that seem impossible to overcome, working in a dead-end job with no room for advancement, or trying to maintain a work-life balance in a society that values overwork. These tasks can leave individuals feeling drained, demoralized, and stuck in a cycle of perpetual frustration.

The Psychological Impact

Engaging in Sisyphean tasks can have a significant psychological impact on individuals. The constant feeling of never making progress or achieving success can lead to feelings of hopelessness, despair, and burnout. It can be challenging to stay motivated when faced with a task that seems insurmountable, which can further exacerbate feelings of helplessness.

In conclusion, the term Sisyphean encapsulates the struggle of facing obstacles that seem impossible to overcome. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of setting realistic goals, recognizing when a task may be futile, and prioritizing self-care to prevent burnout.


Sisyphean Examples

  1. The scientist was faced with a Sisyphean task of trying to measure the infinite expanse of the universe.
  2. The artist felt overwhelmed by the Sisyphean challenge of capturing the beauty of nature in a single painting.
  3. The student found themselves in a Sisyphean cycle of studying endlessly for exams that never seemed to end.
  4. The entrepreneur embarked on a Sisyphean journey of trying to launch a successful startup in a highly competitive market.
  5. The athlete faced a Sisyphean struggle of constantly training and pushing their limits to reach the pinnacle of their sport.
  6. The writer grappled with the Sisyphean task of finding the perfect words to convey their emotions in a novel.
  7. The politician encountered a Sisyphean challenge of trying to bring about lasting change in a deeply entrenched system.
  8. The teacher felt burdened by the Sisyphean responsibility of educating a classroom full of disinterested students.
  9. The explorer faced a Sisyphean quest of trying to uncover the mysteries of a remote and uncharted land.
  10. The inventor grappled with the Sisyphean dilemma of creating a perpetual motion machine that defied the laws of physics.


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  • Updated 15/06/2024 - 01:56:04