deconstruction
UK: ˌdiːkənˈstrʌkʃən | US: ˌdiːkənˈstrʌkʃən
n. A method of critical analysis of philosophical and literary language that emphasizes the internal workings of meaning and the assumptions underlying systems of thought.
n. The process of dismantling or breaking down complex ideas, texts, or structures to reveal their contradictions or hidden meanings.
The word "deconstruction" originates from French déconstruction, coined by philosopher Jacques Derrida in the 1960s. It combines the prefix de- (Latin de, meaning "undo" or "reverse") with construction (Latin constructio, from con- "together" + struere "to pile/build"). The suffix -ion nominalizes the action. Derrida's term critiques traditional Western metaphysics by "undoing" assumed hierarchies in language and thought. The morphemes reflect the core idea: dismantling (de-) what is built (construct) to expose underlying tensions.
Derrida's deconstruction challenges binary oppositions like speech/writing.
Literary deconstruction reveals multiple interpretations within a single text.
The architect applied deconstruction to disrupt conventional building forms.
Her essay uses deconstruction to analyze gender roles in the novel.
Critics argue that deconstruction can lead to relativistic interpretations.