paradigmatic

[par-uh-dig-mat-ik] / ˌpær ə dɪgˈmæt ɪk /

ADJECTIVE

typical

Synonyms

WEAK

archetypal archetypic archetypical average characteristic classic classical common commonplace emblematic essential everyday exemplary expected general habitual ideal illustrative in character in keeping indicative matter-of-course model natural normal old hat ordinary orthodox patterned prevalent prototypal prototypic prototypical quintessential regular representative standard standardized stock suggestive symbolic typic unexceptional

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Some works are paradigmatic, some rather generic; the inclusion of others is perplexing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 28, 2026

The board proved vulnerable to manipulation by Musk, "the paradigmatic 'Superstar CEO,'" wrote McCormick, who upheld her determination in December 2024 following an appeal.

From Barron's • Dec. 19, 2025

The Rodney King case was a paradigmatic example.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 9, 2024

Paradigm shifts are comparatively rare, and only induced by repeated, persistent violations of the paradigmatic assumptions.

From Salon • Oct. 21, 2023

Despite overkill’s failure to enjoy full acceptance, it helped set in stone what became the paradigmatic image of the first Americans.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

Vocabulary lists containing paradigmatic

Vocabulary from Readings 1, Unit 1

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1491

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The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat

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