Understanding the Word: Contemporary
Language is constantly evolving, and some words carry more nuance than others. One such word is contemporary. It is a versatile term that acts as a bridge between the past and the present. Whether you are discussing history, art, or social trends, you will likely encounter this word frequently. Understanding how to use it correctly will not only improve your vocabulary but also help you communicate more precisely about the timing of events and cultural movements.
The Two Core Meanings
At its heart, contemporary usually falls into one of two categories: the historical sense or the modern sense.
1. Existing at the Same Time
When used in a historical context, contemporary refers to people or events that existed during the same era. It doesn't necessarily mean "modern"; it simply means two things occupied the same space in time.
- Example: Shakespeare was a contemporary of Queen Elizabeth I.
- Example: The scientist kept journals that provided a unique view of the contemporary political climate of the 18th century.
2. Belonging to the Present
In everyday conversation, you will most often hear contemporary used to describe things that are happening right now or are very recent. This is common when talking about style, fashion, or current affairs.
- Example: Many people prefer contemporary furniture because of its clean, minimalist lines.
- Example: The museum is famous for its massive collection of contemporary art.
Grammar and Usage
Contemporary can function as both an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it modifies a noun to describe its timeframe. As a noun, it refers to a person.
As an Adjective
You can use it to describe almost anything that fits the current era. It often implies a sense of modern style or relevance.
- Contemporary trends: Used to describe popular habits or styles of the day.
- Contemporary issues: Used to describe problems or topics that society is dealing with currently.
As a Noun
When used as a noun, a contemporary refers to a person who is around the same age as another person or who lived in the same period.
- Example: She is a brilliant writer, often compared to her famous contemporaries in the publishing industry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even advanced learners sometimes confuse contemporary with similar-sounding words. Here are two things to keep in mind:
1. Confusion with "Modern": While they are often used as synonyms, modern can sometimes refer to the entire period from the Renaissance to the present, whereas contemporary is almost strictly limited to the "here and now." If you are talking about the 1920s, it is better to say "modernist" rather than "contemporary."
2. Misusing the preposition: When comparing two things from the same time period, we often say that one person was "contemporary with" or "contemporary to" another. Avoid using "contemporary of" unless you are referring to a person as a noun (e.g., "She is a contemporary of mine").
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "contemporary" the same as "current"?
They are very similar, but contemporary often carries an extra connotation of "style" or "culture." While "current" simply means "happening now," "contemporary" often implies a design aesthetic or a shared historical experience.
Can I use "contemporary" to describe old things?
You can only use it for old things if you are placing them in their own historical context. For example, you could say: "The diary provides a contemporary account of the war." This means the account was written during the time the war happened, not after.
Is "contemporary" a formal word?
It is used in both academic and casual settings. You will see it in news reports, art gallery brochures, and historical textbooks, but it is also perfectly acceptable in a casual conversation about music or house decor.
Conclusion
The word contemporary is a powerful tool for describing where and when things fit into the timeline of human history. By distinguishing between its use as a historical anchor and its use as a description of modern trends, you can add depth and clarity to your writing. Whether you are exploring contemporary architecture or reading about the contemporaries of a famous historical figure, you now have the knowledge to use this word with confidence.