Meaning & Definition of word "Paradigm"

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    Paradigm

    /ˈpær.ə.daɪm/

    noun:

    • 1. A typical example or pattern of something; a model.
      • Example: The new research provided a paradigm for understanding the effects of climate change.
    • 2. A framework containing the basic assumptions, ways of thinking, and methodology that are commonly accepted by a scientific community.
      • Example: In the field of psychology, the cognitive-behavioral paradigm has gained significant traction.
    • 3. The linguistic system or structure that shows the relationships between words, such as in inflection or declension.
      • Example: The Latin verb paradigm illustrates how verbs change according to tense and subject.
    • 4. A set of forms all of which contain a particular element, especially the set of all inflected forms based on a single stem.
      • Example: In Latin, the noun 'puella' serves as a paradigm for first declension nouns.

    Etymology

    From Greek 'paradeigma' meaning 'pattern, example'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    shift in paradigm:

    A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.

    paradigm shift:

    A significant change in the framework of understanding.

    paradigm case:

    An instance or representative example of a particular concept.

    Related Words

    model:

    A standard or example for imitation or comparison.

    framework:

    A basic structure underlying a system, concept, or text.

    schema:

    A representation of a plan or theory in the form of an outline or model.

    Slang Meanings of paradigm

    Meaning: To think outside the box.

    Example Sentence: When faced with the problem, she decided to paradigm shift her thinking and come up with a creative solution.

    Meaning: To adopt a new perspective or approach.

    Example Sentence: His way of tackling the project was a real paradigm shift for the team.