Paradigmatic

Definition

Relating to or serving as a paradigm; exemplary or archetypal in demonstrating the essential features of something. In linguistics and philosophy, it describes elements that can be substituted for one another within a system.

Example Usage

The iPhone was a paradigmatic shift in smartphone design, influencing nearly every competitor that followed.

Origin

From Greek 'paradeigma' (pattern, example), entering English through French and Latin philosophical terminology.

Fun Fact

Thomas Kuhn's concept of 'paradigm shifts' in scientific revolutions popularized the term in the 20th century.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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