Word: Avant-garde
Part of Speech: Adjective and Noun
Meaning: 1. Adjective: When something is described as "avant-garde," it means it is very new, original, or innovative, especially in the arts. It often challenges traditional ideas and pushes boundaries. 2. Noun: The term can also refer to a group of artists, musicians, or writers who are working on new and experimental ideas. They are often at the forefront of creativity and change in their field.
Usage Instructions: - Use "avant-garde" as an adjective to describe works of art, music, or literature that are innovative. - Use it as a noun to refer to the creative individuals or groups that are leading these innovations.
Examples: - Adjective: "The film was praised for its avant-garde style, featuring unusual storytelling techniques." - Noun: "The avant-garde of modern art includes many artists who use technology in their work."
Advanced Usage: - In academic or professional discussions about art or culture, "avant-garde" can be used to describe movements that significantly influence the direction of art, music, or literature. For example, the Dada movement is often considered an avant-garde movement because it rejected traditional aesthetics.
Word Variants: - Avant-gardism (noun): The practice or philosophy of being avant-garde. - Avant-gardist (noun): A person who works in the avant-garde style or movement.
Different Meanings: - In a broader context, "avant-garde" can refer to any ideas or practices that are ahead of their time, not just in the arts. For instance, some technological innovations can also be described as avant-garde.
Synonyms: - Innovative - Experimental - Cutting-edge - Pioneering - Progressive
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to "avant-garde," but you might hear phrases like "pushing the envelope," which means to go beyond the usual limits of creativity or innovation.