paradigm shift

American  

[par-uh-dahym shift] / ˈpær ə daɪm ˌʃɪft /

noun

1. a dramatic change in the paradigm of a scientific community, or a change from one scientific paradigm to another.

2. a significant change in the paradigm of any discipline or group.

   Putting skilled, tenured teachers in failing schools would cause a paradigm shift in teaching and education.

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paradigm shift British  

noun

1. a radical change in underlying beliefs or theory

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Etymology

Origin of paradigm shift

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

If the climber is found guilty it could mean "a paradigm shift for mountain sports", says Austria's Der Standard newspaper.

From BBC • Feb. 17, 2026

What’s needed is a pragmatic and courageous paradigm shift, one that begins with naming and recognizing the contemporary libels used to demonize Jews.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 26, 2026

Further evidence of a paradigm shift: Enthusiastic theatergoers thronging to “Malinche the Musical,” the brainchild of Nacho Cano, a Spanish rock star turned impresario.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 25, 2026

"I think it's a bit of a paradigm shift for us," Caratelli said.

From Science Daily • Jan. 12, 2026

If the relativist account of science were correct, every major paradigm shift ought to be accompanied by bitter disputes between competing intellectual communities: indeed it was Kuhn’s view that this is exactly what happens.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton