1. a method of critical analysis that examines how meaning is created in texts, language, and concepts by breaking down their underlying assumptions and structures.
Usage: primarily used in literary criticism, philosophy, and cultural studies; associated with French philosopher Jacques Derrida
2. the process of taking something apart or breaking it down into its component parts.
Usage: general or technical use

Examples

• The literary critic used deconstruction to reveal hidden meanings in the novel.
• Deconstruction of the argument showed that it relied on unstated assumptions.
• The deconstruction of the old building took several weeks.
• Philosophers apply deconstruction to challenge traditional ways of thinking.
• The deconstruction of language itself is central to postmodern theory.
• Engineers performed a careful deconstruction of the machine to understand how it worked.