paradigm shift — meaning, examples & etymology [English]

paradigm shift (/ˈpær.ə.daɪm ʃɪft/)

noun  ·  Advanced  ·  Science & Technology

🔊 /ˈpær.ə.daɪm ʃɪft/

Meaning

Meaning: a fundamental change in approach

A paradigm shift is a fundamental change in the basic concepts and practices of a field. Speakers use it to signal a complete rethinking of how something is done.

Examples

🗣 The discovery caused a paradigm shift in modern physics.

Etymology

Popularized by Thomas Kuhn in 1962, combining Greek ‘paradeigma’ (pattern) with ‘shift’.

How & Where It’s Used

Used in science and business talks for a wholesale change in worldview.

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Tags: change, thinking

English Dictionary

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