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

Though held in contempt by a large plurality of the nation, Cheney qualifies as a paradigmatic American, like it or not.

From The Daily Beast

In an Indian language it is usually found difficult to elaborate a system of tenses in paradigmatic form.

From Project Gutenberg

These categories constitute conjugations and declensions, and for convenience such combinations may be called paradigmatic.

From Project Gutenberg

It is worthy of remark that all paradigmatic inflection in a civilized tongue is a relic of its barbaric condition.

From Project Gutenberg

It should here be noted that paradigmatic inflections are used for two distinct purposes, qualification and relation.

From Project Gutenberg

These inflections are used chiefly in the paradigmatic combinations.

From Project Gutenberg