paradigmatic

[par-uh-dig-mat-ik]

adjective

of or relating to a paradigm.
Linguistics. pertaining to a relationship among linguistic elements that can substitute for each other in a given context, as the relationship of sun in The sun is shining to other nouns, as moon, star, or light, that could substitute for it in that sentence, or of is shining to was shining, shone, will shine, etc., as well as to is rising, is setting, etc.Compare syntagmatic.

Sometimes par·a·dig·mat·i·cal.

Origin of paradigmatic

1655–65; < Greek paradeigmatikós, equivalent to paradeigmat-, stem of parádeigma paradigm + -ikos -ic

Related formspar·a·dig·mat·i·cal·ly, adverb

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Though held in contempt by a large plurality of the nation, Cheney qualifies as a paradigmatic American, like it or not.
The Quintessential American
James Carroll
December 3, 2009

These inflections are used chiefly in the paradigmatic combinations.
On the Evolution of Language
John Wesley Powell
In an Indian language it is usually found difficult to elaborate a system of tenses in paradigmatic form.
On the Evolution of Language
John Wesley Powell
It is worthy of remark that all paradigmatic inflection in a civilized tongue is a relic of its barbaric condition.
On the Evolution of Language
John Wesley Powell
It should here be noted that paradigmatic inflections are used for two distinct purposes, qualification and relation.
On the Evolution of Language
John Wesley Powell