paradigmatic

[ par-uh-dig-mat-ik ]

adjective

1. of or relating to a paradigm.
2. Linguistics. pertaining to a relationship among linguistic elements that can substitute for each other in a given context, as the relationship of sun in The sun is shining to other nouns, as moon, star, or light, that could substitute for it in that sentence, or of is shining to was shining, shone, will shine, etc., as well as to is rising, is setting, etc. Compare syntagmatic.

Other Words From

• para·dig·mati·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of paradigmatic¹

1655–65; < Greek paradeigmatikós, equivalent to paradeigmat-, stem of parádeigma paradigm + -ikos -ic

Example Sentences

“Something like this is the paradigmatic example of substantial risk of serious harm” Kendrick continued, “and the failure of the county to act for almost 20 years is the textbook definition of deliberate indifference.”

From Los Angeles Times

Yes, I know, the South did not invent sweet tea — or big hair or monogramed towels, for that matter — but we have “southernized” it to the point of it being paradigmatic of our culture.

From Salon

Smith contends that Trump’s attempt to thwart the peaceful transfer of power is a paradigmatic example of conduct that can’t be immunized.

From Los Angeles Times

Paradigm shifts are comparatively rare, and only induced by repeated, persistent violations of the paradigmatic assumptions.

From Salon

It’s an inviting, paradigmatic story of female self-discovery and empowerment, so it’s too bad that the movie’s hold on you proves far less firm than Gainsbourg’s.

From New York Times