paradigm
PAR-uh-dyme
/ˈpærədaɪm/
A typical example, pattern, or model of something; a distinct set of concepts or thought patterns.
Often used in the phrase 'paradigm shift' to describe a fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
The story behind the word. Originally used in grammar to describe a table of all the inflected forms of a word, 'paradigm' was transformed in 1962 by philosopher of science Thomas Kuhn. He used it to describe the shared set of assumptions that define a scientific discipline, coining the term 'paradigm shift' to describe scientific revolutions.
Word relationships
- framework: A framework is a supporting structure, while a paradigm is a deeply ingrained way of viewing the world.
- archetype: An archetype is a perfect, original model of a specific thing, whereas a paradigm is a system of thought or rules.
- anomaly: An anomaly is something that deviates from the standard model or paradigm.
Commonly confused with
- paragon: A paragon is a person or thing viewed as a model of excellence, while a paradigm is a conceptual model or framework.
Word family
- paradigmatic (adjective): Serving as a typical example or paradigm.
Collocations
- paradigm shift
- dominant paradigm
- new paradigm
- shifting paradigms
Example sentences
- "The rise of the sharing economy represents a new paradigm in consumer behavior and resource ownership." An academic paper on economic models.
- "Successive transition from one paradigm to another via revolution is the usual developmental pattern of mature science." The seminal work on scientific revolutions.
Memory hook
Think of 'pair of dimes'. Two identical coins are a perfect pattern or model of currency. A pair of dimes is a perfect pattern.
When not to use
Do not use it as a fancy word for a simple 'idea' or 'method'. It must refer to a broad, overarching framework of thinking.
Fun facts
- The 'g' in paradigm is silent, but it reappears in the pronunciation of its adjective form, paradigmatic.
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