deconstruct
verb
de·con·struct
| \ ˌdē-kən-ˈstrəkt
\
\
deconstructed;
deconstructing;
deconstructs
Definition of deconstruct
1
: to examine (something, such as a work of literature) using the methods of deconstruction
2
: to take apart or examine (something) in order to reveal the basis or composition often with the intention of exposing biases, flaws, or inconsistencies
deconstruct the myths of both the left and the right— Wayne Karlin
3
: to adapt or separate the elements of for use in an ironic or radically new way
uses his masterly tailoring skills to deconstruct the classics — Vogue
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Other Words from deconstruct
deconstructive
\ ˌdē-kən-ˈstrək-tiv
\
adjective
\
adjective
deconstructor
\ ˌdē-kən-ˈstrək-tər
\
noun
\
noun
Synonyms for deconstruct
Synonyms
analyze, anatomize, assay, break down, cut, dissect
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Examples of deconstruct in a Sentence
deconstructing the economic theories of John Maynard Keynes
Recent Examples on the Web
Two dresses hanging at the entrance to the exhibition like theater curtains are deconstructed. — San Diego Union-Tribune, "In Oceanside Museum of Art’s ‘Dress Rehearsal,’ artists use garment in unexpected ways," 21 Aug. 2019 More Stories By Season 2, when Orange got to more aggressively deconstructing its Trojan-horse setup, Taystee was already being positioned as the show’s most crucial component. — Sophie Gilbert, The Atlantic, "The Ballad of Taystee Jefferson," 31 July 2019 South African artist Frances Goodman deconstructs the amorous traditions of the car back set with her Skin on Skin, whose title is spelled out in faux pearls across a car seat minus its stuffing. — Roger Catlin, Smithsonian, "Women’s Voices Ring With a Resounding Roar in This New Show," 16 July 2019 PRIDE Avant-pop group Arthur Moon are more than happy to deconstruct the conventions of typical pop music to make a new, fresh sound. — Stephen Daw, Billboard, "Arthur Moon Question Reality in Stunning New 'Reverse Conversion Therapy' Video: Watch," 12 July 2019 There were dramatic over-the-top outfits (hi, Ashley Graham), deconstructed suits (as seen on Gigi Hadid) and lots and lots of sparkle. — PEOPLE.com, "Anna Wintour's Daughter Recycles Bridesmaids Dress from Friend's Wedding 48 Hours Later at CFDAs," 4 June 2019 One Billion Points of Data Tallon, who died Nov. 18, 2018, at 49, wasn't the first to realize that laser scanners could be used to deconstruct Gothic architecture. — Andrew Tallon, National Geographic, "Historian uses lasers to unlock mysteries of Gothic cathedrals," 16 Apr. 2019 Much of my journey as an educator has revolved around deconstructing this narrow imagery and bringing a more expansive representation of people, communities and values to the eyes and ears of all people. — San Diego Union-Tribune, "Teaching kids to use the power of media to empower themselves and find their voice," 20 July 2019 Also check the eerie, deconstructed remix by Frankfurt producer Ludwig A.F. Röhrscheid. — Kat Bein, Billboard, "First Spin: The Week's Best New Dance Tracks From Polo & Pan, Jonas Blue, Phantoms, Tokimonsta & More," 19 July 2019These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'deconstruct.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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