Contemporary: meaning, definitions and examples
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contemporary
[kənˈtɛmpərəri ]
Definitions
society
Belonging to or occurring in the present; modern or current.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contemporary |
Used to describe something that belongs to the same period as something else or is current in terms of time. Often used in arts, literature, or social context.
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| modern |
Used to describe something related to the present or recent times, often with a connotation of advanced or new. Can refer to technology, architecture, lifestyle, etc.
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| current |
Refers to something happening or existing now. Usually used in everyday contexts to refer to presently ongoing events or situations.
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| up-to-date |
Describes something that is current, fresh, and latest; often used for information, fashion, or technology. It implies that something is not outdated.
|
Examples of usage
- contemporary art
- contemporary music scene
- contemporary issues in society
art
A person or thing living or existing at the same time as another.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contemporary |
Used to describe something belonging to the present time or something that is modern.
|
| peer |
Typically used to refer to someone who is equal to another in abilities, qualifications, age, background, or social status.
|
| fellow |
Used to refer to people with shared characteristics, often used in a friendly or informal manner.
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| coeval |
Used in more formal contexts to describe something or someone of the same age or period as another.
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Examples of usage
- Picasso and Matisse were contemporaries
- The novel is set in the contemporary of World War II
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from Latin 'contemporarius', which means 'with time', reflecting its relation to the present.
- First known use in English was in the 16th century, to refer to people who lived in the same age.
- In art, it started being used to define movements that are modern compared to classical periods.
Art and Literature
- Contemporary literature often reflects current social issues, including technology, identity, and culture.
- In visual arts, contemporary artists often challenge traditional forms and express current societal dialogues.
- Notable contemporary authors include Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and David Foster Wallace, who explore complex modern themes.
Pop Culture
- In music, contemporary styles include pop, electronic, and hip-hop, which dominate charts today.
- Television shows today often tackle modern-day issues, making them relevant to current viewers.
- Fashion trends labeled 'contemporary' often mix classic styles with modern twists.
Science and Technology
- Contemporary science embraces interdisciplinary approaches, uniting fields like biology and technology to solve today's problems.
- Current technological advancements, such as AI and renewable energy, shape our contemporary world.
- The concept of contemporary science stresses the necessity for rapid adaptation and innovation.
Social Movements
- Contemporary movements such as Black Lives Matter focus on racial equality and justice, reflecting current societal needs.
- Environmental activism today pushes for immediate action against climate change, highlighting its urgency.
- The LGBTQ+ rights movement has evolved significantly in contemporary society, advocating for equal rights and recognition.
Translations
Translations of the word "contemporary" in other languages:
🇵🇹 contemporâneo
🇮🇳 समकालीन
🇩🇪 zeitgenössisch
🇮🇩 kontemporer
🇺🇦 сучасний
🇵🇱 współczesny
🇯🇵 現代的な (gendai-teki na)
🇫🇷 contemporain
🇪🇸 contemporáneo
🇹🇷 çağdaş
🇰🇷 현대의 (hyeondae-ui)
🇸🇦 معاصر (muaasir)
🇨🇿 současný
🇸🇰 súčasný
🇨🇳 当代的 (dāngdài de)
🇸🇮 sodobni
🇮🇸 samtíma
🇰🇿 заманауи
🇬🇪 თანამედროვე (tanamedrove)
🇦🇿 müasir
🇲🇽 contemporáneo