modernism
- 01 C1 Advanced
a style in art, architecture, and literature from the early 1900s that tried to find new ways to express the modern world.
a movement in the arts and literature that flourished in the early 20th century, characterized by a deliberate departure from tradition and the use of innovative forms of expression.
Simple“The course covers the impact of modernism on early 20th-century poetry and painting.”
In context“High modernism in literature often employed stream-of-consciousness techniques to reflect the fragmented nature of human experience in the industrial age.”
UsageOften capitalized when referring to the specific historical movement.
Teacher's tipLearners should distinguish this from 'modernity', which refers to the state of being modern rather than the specific artistic movement.
Synonymsavant gardeexperimentalismAntonymstraditionalismclassicism - 02 C1 Advanced
modern ideas, methods, or ways of thinking.
the quality or state of being modern; modern thought, character, or practice.
Simple“The building's design was a perfect example of mid-century modernism.”
In context“The architect sought to infuse the project with a sense of modernism that respected the surrounding historical context.”
UsageUncountable in this sense.
- 03 C2 Proficiency
a movement in the Catholic Church that tried to combine traditional beliefs with modern science.
a movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries that sought to reconcile Roman Catholic dogma with modern scientific and philosophical thought.
Simple“The Pope issued a decree against modernism in the early 1900s.”
In context“The theological debate over modernism led to significant friction between progressive thinkers and the conservative hierarchy of the Church.”
UsageUsually capitalized in a religious context.
Teacher's tipThis is a very niche sense; unless teaching theology or history, focus on the artistic sense.
SynonymsAntonymsorthodoxytraditionalism
From modern + -ism.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.