paradigm
7 synonyms for paradigm, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A typical pattern or model of how something is done; a framework of ideas or beliefs.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use paradigm
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
paradigm shift
a new paradigm
dominant paradigm
Etymology
From Greek paradeigma ("pattern"), from paradeiknymi ("to show side by side, compare").
Full origin of paradigm →Frequently asked questions
What does “paradigm” mean?
The word “paradigm” means a typical pattern or model of how something is done; a framework of ideas or beliefs. In plain terms, a model pattern or standard way of thinking about something.
How do you pronounce “paradigm”?
“Paradigm” is pronounced PAR-uh-dym (/ˈpæɹ.ə.daɪm/ in IPA).
How do you use “paradigm” in a sentence?
Here is “paradigm” used in a sentence: “The discovery forced scientists to abandon the old paradigm.”
What part of speech is “paradigm”?
“Paradigm” is a noun.
Where does the word “paradigm” come from?
The word “paradigm” comes from Greek. From Greek paradeigma ("pattern"), from paradeiknymi ("to show side by side, compare").
Is “paradigm” a common word?
“Paradigm” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “paradigm” have?
“Paradigm” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a typical pattern or model of how something is done; a framework of ideas or beliefs.
What is the difference between a paradigm and a theory?
A theory is a specific explanation for a set of phenomena, while a paradigm is the broader framework of ideas, assumptions, and methods within which theories are developed and judged. A paradigm shapes what questions are asked and what counts as a valid answer, whereas a theory operates inside that framework.
What does it mean to have a "paradigm shift"?
A paradigm shift refers to a fundamental change in the typical pattern or framework of ideas that underlies how something is understood or done. It marks a move away from an established model toward a new one that better explains or organizes the evidence at hand.
How is paradigm used outside of science?
Beyond science, paradigm is often used loosely to describe any typical model or outstanding example that others follow, such as a business practice or a design approach held up as the standard others should imitate.
