deconstruction

noun

de·​con·​struc·​tion ˌdē-kən-ˈstrək-shən 

1

: a philosophical or critical method which asserts that meanings, metaphysical constructs, and hierarchical oppositions (as between key terms in a philosophical or literary work) are always rendered unstable by their dependence on ultimately arbitrary signifiers

also : an instance of the use of this method

a deconstruction of the nature–culture opposition in Rousseau's work

2

: the analytic examination of something (such as a theory) often in order to reveal its inadequacy

Did you know?

Deconstruction doesn't actually mean "demolition;" instead it means "breaking down" or analyzing something (especially the words in a work of fiction or nonfiction) to discover its true significance, which is supposedly almost never exactly what the author intended. A feminist may deconstruct an old novel to show how even an innocent-seeming story somehow depends on the oppression of women. A new western may deconstruct the myths of the old West and show lawmen as vicious and criminals as flawed but decent. Table manners, The Sound of Music, and cosmetics ads have all been the subjects of deconstructionist analysis. Of course, not everyone agrees with deconstructionist interpretations, and some people reject the whole idea of deconstruction, but most of us have run into it by now even if we didn't realize it.

Synonyms

• analysis
• anatomizing
• anatomy
• assay
• breakdown
• dissection

Examples of deconstruction in a Sentence

a lengthy deconstruction of the president's speech by a panel of pundits

Recent Examples on the Web

What's next after the dams come down The final deconstruction, including some remaining riverside infrastructure, is slated to be completed by the end of September. —Debra Utacia Krol, USA TODAY, 2 Sep. 2024

It was determined the tower could not be salvaged, which led to its deconstruction and removal from the skyline of the mansion. —Claudia Williams, Architectural Digest, 26 July 2024

Advertisement California Battered Wayfarers Chapel must be completely dismantled to be saved May 13, 2024 Chapel leaders hope to eventually rebuild the historic landmark, but the deconstruction has bought them time to determine what will come next without the threat of losing everything. —Grace Toohey, Los Angeles Times, 9 Aug. 2024

Advertisement Throughout the process, cultural observers were present to ensure deconstruction was done in a respectful way, and while the new authority was not involved in the decommissioning process, Caltech invited members to perform cultural ceremonies at its conclusion. —Noah Haggerty, Los Angeles Times, 2 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French déconstruction, from dé- de- + construction

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined at sense 1