Deconstruction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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deconstruction
[หdiหkษnหstrสkสษn ]
Definitions
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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deconstruction |
Often used in philosophy, literary theory, and architecture to break down and understand the underlying assumptions, ideas, and frameworks within a text or structure.
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analysis |
Commonly used in scientific, financial, and academic settings to examine data or texts methodically and in detail to understand or interpret them.
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interpretation |
Often used in contexts where understanding or explaining the meaning of something, such as texts, laws, data, or events, is required.
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examination |
Typically used in educational, medical, and investigative settings to assess or inspect something carefully and thoroughly.
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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.
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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deconstruction |
Often used in philosophical, literary, or theoretical discussions to break down concepts, structures, and ideas into their fundamental parts to understand them differently.
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disintegration |
Describes the process of something breaking apart into smaller pieces or losing cohesion, often used in a physical, organizational, or social context.
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dismantling |
Refers to the process of taking something apart systematically, piece by piece, commonly used in mechanical or structural contexts.
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fragmentation |
Describes the process of breaking or being broken into smaller, separate parts, often used in contexts related to society, technology, or literature.
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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
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Deconstruction challenges traditional interpretations of texts, suggesting that meaning is not fixed but varies based on context.
- Key authors often associated with deconstructive criticism include Roland Barthes and Michel Foucault, who argued for multiple perspectives in interpretation.
- In literature, deconstruction can reveal contradictions within a narrative, making readers rethink their understanding of stories.
Philosophy
- It emphasizes the idea that language is unstable and meanings can change depending on their use and context.
- Deconstruction invites critical thinking by revealing how concepts are built up through social and cultural frameworks.
- Philosopher Jacques Derrida used deconstruction to highlight the binary oppositions in Western thought, like speech vs. writing.
Art and Architecture
- In architecture, deconstructivism is a movement that creates buildings with a non-linear design, often looking fragmented or unconventional.
- Famous architects like Frank Gehry and Zaha Hadid have used deconstruction in their works to challenge traditional architectural forms.
- This style often evokes a sense of movement and change, pushing against the norms of established architectural design.
Pop Culture
- Deconstruction can be seen in films and TV shows that parody or subvert traditional genres, like 'Scream' for horror or 'Airplane!' for comedy.
- In music, deconstructing a song can result in unique remixes or covers that challenge the original form.
- Video games often utilize deconstruction in storytelling, allowing players to question narrative structures and character roles.
Origin of 'deconstruction'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the French word 'dรฉconstruction,' meaning 'unbuilding' or 'removing structure.'
- It was popularized in the 1960s by philosopher Jacques Derrida, who examined how texts can have multiple meanings.
- The concept is closely linked to post-structuralism, a movement in literary theory and criticism that emerged after structuralism.
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.
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- 21440 evangelistic
- 21441 germinated
- 21442 midwifery
- 21443 deconstruction
- 21444 applicator
- 21445 crayfish
- 21446 transcribing
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