deconstruction
Meaning: A method of critical analysis that examines how meaning is constructed in texts and reveals inherent contradictions and assumptions; more broadly, the systematic dismantling of an idea or institution.
Deconstruction was developed by French philosopher Jacques Derrida in the 1960s as a way of reading texts that exposes their internal contradictions and the instability of meaning. In popular usage, the word has been loosened to mean any thorough analysis or taking apart of a concept, argument, or system. In cooking, a 'deconstructed' dish presents traditional ingredients in an unconventional, separated arrangement.
Examples
- Derrida's deconstruction of Western philosophy challenged assumptions that had been taken for granted for centuries. 德里达对西方哲学的解构挑战了数百年来被视为理所当然的假设。La deconstrucción de la filosofía occidental por Derrida desafió supuestos que se habían dado por sentados durante siglos.デリダによる西洋哲学の脱構築は、何世紀にもわたり当然視されてきた前提に異議を唱えました。데리다의 서양 철학 해체는 수 세기 동안 당연시되어 온 전제들에 이의를 제기했습니다.
- The documentary offers a careful deconstruction of the myths surrounding the British Empire. 这部纪录片对围绕大英帝国的神话进行了审慎的解构。El documental ofrece una cuidadosa deconstrucción de los mitos en torno al Imperio británico.そのドキュメンタリーは大英帝国をめぐる神話を丁寧に脱構築しています。그 다큐멘터리는 대영제국을 둘러싼 신화를 정밀하게 해체합니다.
- The chef served a deconstructed pavlova, with the meringue, cream, and fruit presented separately on the plate. 厨师端上了一道解构帕芙洛娃,蛋白霜、奶油和水果分别摆放在盘中。El chef sirvió una pavlova deconstruida, con el merengue, la nata y la fruta presentados por separado en el plato.シェフはメレンゲ、クリーム、フルーツを皿の上に分けて盛り付けた脱構築パヴロヴァを提供しました。셰프는 머랭, 크림, 과일을 접시 위에 따로 담아낸 해체된 파블로바를 선보였습니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: academic, media
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From French déconstruction, coined by Jacques Derrida from dé- (un-, apart) and construction, itself from Latin constructio (building, arrangement). First used in English in the 1970s.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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