paradigm
PAIR-uh-dime
/ˈpær.ə.daɪm/
A comprehensive framework of concepts, assumptions, and standards that shapes how a scientific discipline views reality during a given era.
Refers to a massive conceptual system that dictates what questions scientists ask and what methods are valid, rather than just a single idea.
The story behind the word. From Greek 'paradeigma' (pattern or model), composed of 'para-' (alongside) and 'deiknynai' (to show or point out). Originally used in rhetoric and grammar to mean a benchmark example. Historian of science Thomas Kuhn transformed the word in 1962 in 'The Structure of Scientific Revolutions', giving it its modern meaning of a shared worldview governing a scientific community.
Word relationships
- archetype: An archetype is a perfect, classic example or ideal model of something, while a paradigm is an overarching system of thought.
- framework: A framework is any structured outline, whereas a paradigm carries deep social and historical authority within a discipline.
Commonly confused with
- paragon: A paragon is a person or thing regarded as a model of excellence, whereas a paradigm is a theoretical conceptual model.
Word family
- paradigmatic (adjective): Serving as a typical example or fundamental paradigm.
- paradigmatically (adverb): In a manner that exemplfies a paradigm.
Collocations
- paradigm shift
- dominant paradigm
- prevailing paradigm
- paradigm of inquiry
Example sentences
- "The shift from Newtonian mechanics to quantum theory represented a revolutionary paradigm shift in modern physics." History of science
- "In his landmark text, Thomas Kuhn demonstrated how a prevailing scientific paradigm resists revision until anomalies accumulate." Sociology of knowledge (Thomas Kuhn, The Structure of Scientific Revolutions)
Memory hook
Pairing a PARADIGM with a PARALLEL DIAGRAM helps you see the underlying structure. An overarching model shaping how reality is viewed.
When not to use
Avoid using as a buzzword for minor everyday policy changes; reserve it for fundamental structural shifts in understanding.
Fun facts
- Thomas Kuhn's use of 'paradigm' became so widespread in business jargon that Kuhn himself later expressed regret over how loosely people applied it.
Related words
Also appears in
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.