contemporary - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
contemporary Word Meanings
- existing or happening at the same time as something else
- belonging to the same time period
- a person or thing living or happening at the same time as another
contemporary Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
contemporary Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈtɛmpərəri/
US
/kənˈtɛmpəˌrɛri/
contemporary Word Etymology
con- = together + temporary = time; from Latin 'temporalis' meaning 'of time' → Middle English → modern English. Imagine people from different times meeting in a contemporary art gallery, blending historical styles.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I move my hand to turn a page in a dusty photo album. I pull two portraits close and set them side by side, watching how their clothes, faces, and light press into the same moment. The effort to line them up feels like a small push of time, a careful adjustment. As the images sit together, I keep noticing that things happening now can be in the same breath, sharing the moment.
Real Context
Contemporary means existing or happening now, or belonging to the same time period as something else. As an adjective, it describes things that are current or modern, such as contemporary art, music, or fashion, and it often contrasts with historical styles. As a noun, a contemporary is a person or thing living at the same time as another, for example a writer and their contemporary colleague. Learners should note that contemporary is not the same as temporary, which implies a short duration. The word emphasizes presence, relevance, and shared era. Common collocations include contemporary history, contemporary culture, and contemporary artists in a gallery or museum.
Usage Reminders
- - Remember that contemporary can be both an adjective and a noun.
- - Use with art, culture, and history to emphasize current time.
- - Do not substitute with temporary, which means short-term.
- - Pair with phrases like contemporary art or contemporary society.
- - Distinguish between contemporaries (people) and contemporary things.
- - Check whether you mean the present era or the same time as another thing.
Common Misconceptions
- Contemporary = trendy or fashionable only
- Confusing with modern or newer
- Using contemporary to mean only current news, not time together
- Thinking it always refers to people, not things
- Mixing up with temporary (short-lived)
Thinking Differences
Think of contemporary as both present and coexisting with another thing's era. It is not just 'current' in time but also about belonging to the same time period as something else. Learners often swap it for modern or fashionable usage or treat it only as a noun for people.
Learning Tips
- Learn both adjective and noun uses early.
- Pair with art, history, culture to signal present time.
- Don't confuse with temporary; think duration vs era.
- Notice collocations: contemporary history, contemporary artist.
- Practice with contrasts: contemporary vs ancient; vs modern.
- Read passages about current events to hear it in context.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'contemporary'?
A.Current
B.Outdated
C.Ancient
D.Modern
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is the word 'contemporary' used correctly?
A.The contemporary society has embraced many technological advancements.
B.She prefers to read only contemporary novels.
C.He lives in a contemporary house that is over a hundred years old.
D.The artist creates contemporary paintings inspired by the Renaissance period.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'contemporary'?
A.Antique
B.Historical
C.Vintage
D.Modern
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an opposite of 'contemporary'?
A.Ancient
B.Up-to-date
C.Trendy
D.Current
Step 5: Mastery
In what context would you use the word 'contemporary'?
A.Referring to something from the past
B.Discussing historical figures
C.Talking about current events
D.Describing a new fashion trend
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