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postmodernism

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //poʊstˈmɒdərnɪzəm//

KK: /ˈpoʊstˌmɒdərnɪzəm/

noun
Definition

A style in art, literature, and philosophy that opposes the ideas of modernism and often includes a mix of different styles and ideas.


Example

Postmodernism challenges traditional narratives and embraces a variety of perspectives.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever read anything about postmodernism?
Sloth B
Yeah, I found it really interesting how it challenges traditional ideas.
Sloth A
I agree! It's fascinating to see how postmodernism influences art and literature.
Sloth B
Definitely! It opens up so many new ways of thinking.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
deconstruction
pluralism
irony
Antonyms
modernism
traditionalism
realism
Root Explanation

Postmodernism is formed from "post-" (meaning after) and "modern" (from Latin "modernus", meaning belonging to the present or recent times) and "-ism" (a suffix used to denote a distinctive practice or philosophy). The term refers to a movement or philosophy that comes after modernism, characterized by a departure from traditional forms and ideas.

Memory Tip

Think of 'post-' meaning 'after' and 'modern' referring to the 'present' — postmodernism is a philosophy that comes after the modern era.

Visually Confused Words
modernism
promodernist
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