a deconstruction of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a deconstruction of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when analyzing or breaking down a concept, text, or idea to understand its underlying components or meanings. Example: "The article presents a deconstruction of traditional gender roles in modern society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A deconstruction of the detective novel?

The New Yorker

We're watching a deconstruction of anal sex.

The New York Times - Arts

And a deconstruction of stupid Hollywood.

The Guardian - Film

We were watching a deconstruction of anal sex.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a deconstruction of power, a dismantling of grandeur.

The New Yorker

"It's both a summation and a deconstruction of sculpture".

The New York Times - Arts

Another movement, "Christian Zeal and Activity," was a deconstruction of a famous hymn.

The New Yorker

It's a deconstruction of the Baroque spirit, exploratory and rigorous, intimate and formal.

The New Yorker

"My work is a deconstruction of the language of painting, sexuality and class.

The Economist

It is less a portrait of mayhem than a deconstruction of assassination.

The New York Times

Instead, "The Apprentice Mage," told chronologically, is a deconstruction of Yeats's own account, "Autobiographies".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure clarity by explicitly stating what is being deconstructed. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the subject of your analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "a deconstruction of" when a simpler term like "analysis" or "examination" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound pretentious or unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deconstruction of" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a noun that specifies the subject being critically analyzed. It indicates a process of dismantling or breaking down a concept or structure to reveal its underlying assumptions or power dynamics, as Ludwig examples demonstrate.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

20%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a deconstruction of" is a prepositional phrase that signals a critical and analytical approach, commonly used to dismantle concepts and reveal underlying assumptions. As confirmed by Ludwig, its grammatical status is correct, and it's frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts. While highly useful in formal writing, it should be used judiciously to prevent unnecessary complexity. Alternatives such as "an analysis of" or "an examination of" may be more appropriate in simpler contexts. Ludwig's examples demonstrate the phrase's prevalence in authoritative sources, highlighting its value in academic and critical discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an analysis of

Focuses on detailed examination and understanding.

a breakdown of

Emphasizes simplification and division into smaller parts.

an examination of

Highlights careful and thorough investigation.

an interpretation of

Stresses subjective understanding and meaning.

a dissection of

Implies a meticulous and critical analysis.

an unpacking of

Suggests revealing hidden elements or layers.

an exploration of

Focuses on a detailed investigation.

a critical analysis of

Emphasizes judgmental and evaluative assessment.

a study of

Presents a systematic investigation.

a reinterpretation of

Highlights a new or different understanding.

FAQs

How is "a deconstruction of" used in academic writing?

In academic writing, "a deconstruction of" is used to critically analyze texts, theories, or concepts to expose their underlying assumptions and inherent contradictions. It often involves examining power structures and challenging established interpretations.

What's the difference between "an analysis of" and "a deconstruction of"?

"An analysis of" involves a detailed examination of something, while "a deconstruction of" goes further by critically examining its underlying assumptions, biases, and power structures.

When is it appropriate to use "a deconstruction of" in a sentence?

Use "a deconstruction of" when you want to convey a critical and analytical approach that aims to dismantle or expose hidden meanings, assumptions, or power dynamics within a text, concept, or system. It's apt for academic and theoretical discussions.

What are some alternatives to "a deconstruction of"?

Alternatives include "an analysis of", "a breakdown of", "an examination of", or "an interpretation of", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.