The phrase "state of nature" can be used to describe the hypothetical state of human existence before the advent of civilization. However, there are several other phrases that can be used as synonyms to describe this concept. One such phrase is "primitive era," which connotes a time when humans lived off the land without the benefit of modern technology. "Neolithic age" is another phrase that describes a time period in human history when early societies first developed agriculture and began building permanent settlements. "Hunter-gatherer society" is another phrase that implies a lifestyle based on subsistence and communal living. All of these phrases convey the idea of a time when humans lived closer to nature and were more self-sufficient.