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Modernity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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modernity

[ˌmɒdəˈnɪti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

in society

The quality or condition of being modern. The term is often used to describe the current era as compared to past historical periods. Modernity is characterized by technological advancements, social changes, and cultural shifts.

Synonyms

advancement, contemporary, progressiveness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
modernity

Used to describe the quality or condition of being modern, often applied to the current era characterized by technological advancements and changing social norms.

  • The modernity of the city is reflected in its architecture and public transportation system
  • Her views on gender roles reflect a strong sense of modernity
contemporary

Often used to describe something that belongs to the same period as something else, especially in terms of art, culture, and literature. It can also refer to people living at the same time.

  • His contemporary art pieces are displayed in the museum
  • She enjoys reading contemporary novels
progressiveness

Used to highlight forward-thinking attitudes, particularly in social, political, or educational contexts. This word often carries a positive connotation of wanting to improve and move beyond traditional limits.

  • The school is known for its progressiveness in education policies
  • Her progressiveness truly transformed the company's work culture
advancement

Typically used when discussing progress or development, especially in technology, science, or social structures.

  • The advancement of technology has significantly changed how we communicate
  • Medical advancements are saving lives every day

Examples of usage

  • Many people associate modernity with the rise of industrialization and urbanization.
  • In the context of art, modernity often refers to the rejection of traditional styles and the embrace of experimentation.
  • Globalization has been a driving force behind the spread of modernity across different cultures.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'modernity' emerged during the Enlightenment, a time in the 17th and 18th centuries when people started to think about reason and science.
  • The Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century, marked a significant shift towards modernity as technology and industry transformed societies.
  • Modernity also reflects cultural changes, with cities growing larger and people moving away from farms to seek new opportunities in urban areas.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like René Descartes and Immanuel Kant greatly influenced modern ideas, focusing on human reason and freedom.
  • The concept of modernity is often contrasted with tradition, emphasizing progress, innovation, and questioning existing beliefs.
  • Postmodernism, which developed in the late 20th century, critiques and explores the boundaries of modernity, suggesting that reality is subjective and constructed by culture.

Art and Literature

  • Art movements like Impressionism and Cubism emerged during the period of modernity, showing new ways to represent reality.
  • Many writers explored themes of isolation and urban life in their novels, reflecting the changing experiences of individuals in a modern world.
  • Modernist literature often breaks traditional storytelling methods, highlighted by authors like James Joyce and Virginia Woolf.

Technology

  • Modernity is often associated with rapid advancements in technology, leading to innovations like the internet, smartphones, and artificial intelligence.
  • Transportation methods evolved significantly during this time, with the introduction of cars, planes, and high-speed trains reshaping how people connect.
  • The rise of social media platforms illustrates the role of technology in modern society, affecting communication, relationships, and information sharing.

Sociology

  • Modernity has contributed to the idea of the individual as a central figure in society, influencing personal identity and social roles.
  • Sociologists study how modernity impacts community structures, often leading to larger and more diverse populations in cities.
  • The concept also addresses the tensions between modernization and traditional cultures, as societies adapt to new realities while trying to preserve their heritage.

Origin of 'modernity'

The term 'modernity' originated in the late 19th century as societies around the world experienced rapid industrialization and urbanization. It reflects a shift towards new ways of thinking, living, and organizing society. Modernity has been a subject of philosophical, sociological, and cultural debates, with scholars exploring its implications on identity, politics, and the environment.

See also: modern, modernism, modernization, modernize, modernized, modernizer, postmodernist.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,290, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.