Deconstruction: meaning, definitions and examples

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deconstruction

 

[ ˌdiːkənˈstrʌkʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

critical theory

Deconstruction is a philosophical and critical approach concerned with the relationship between text and meaning. It involves close reading and analysis of texts to reveal the internal contradictions and underlying assumptions. Deconstruction challenges the notion of fixed meanings and emphasizes the ambiguity and complexity of language.

Synonyms

analysis, examination, interpretation

Examples of usage

  • His deconstruction of the poem highlighted the multiple interpretations that could be derived from the text.
  • In deconstruction, there is no definitive interpretation, only a constant questioning of meaning.
Context #2 | Noun

architecture

In architecture, deconstruction refers to a style characterized by the fragmentation and manipulation of traditional design elements. It often involves the use of non-linear forms and the deconstruction of traditional geometric shapes.

Synonyms

disintegration, dismantling, fragmentation

Examples of usage

  • The deconstruction of the building created a visually striking and unconventional structure.
  • Architects used deconstruction to challenge the conventions of architectural design.

Translations

Translations of the word "deconstruction" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desconstrução

🇮🇳 विघटन

🇩🇪 Dekonstruktion

🇮🇩 dekonstruksi

🇺🇦 деконструкція

🇵🇱 dekonstrukcja

🇯🇵 脱構築 (datsukōchiku)

🇫🇷 déconstruction

🇪🇸 deconstrucción

🇹🇷 dekonstrüksiyon

🇰🇷 해체 (haeche)

🇸🇦 تفكيك

🇨🇿 dekonstrukce

🇸🇰 dekonstrukcia

🇨🇳 解构 (jiěgòu)

🇸🇮 dekonstrukcija

🇮🇸 afbygging

🇰🇿 деконструкция

🇬🇪 დეკონსტრუქცია

🇦🇿 dekonstruksiya

🇲🇽 deconstrucción

Etymology

The term 'deconstruction' originated in the work of French philosopher Jacques Derrida in the 1960s. Derrida used the term to describe his method of textual analysis that aimed to expose the inherent contradictions and hierarchies in language. Deconstruction has since been applied to various fields beyond philosophy, including literary criticism, architecture, and cultural studies.

See also: construct, constructed, constructing, construction, constructive, constructiveness, constructivism, constructor, deconstruct, misconstruction, reconstruct, reconstruction, reconstructive, reconstructor, unconstructed.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,443, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.