What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
modernism
Example
Modernism rejected the conventions of the past and embraced new forms of expression. [modernism: noun]
Example
The modernist movement in literature emphasized individualism and subjectivity. [modernist: adjective]
avant-garde
Example
The avant-garde artists of the early 20th century challenged traditional notions of beauty and representation. [avant-garde: adjective]
Example
The avant-garde movement in music embraced dissonance and unconventional sounds. [avant-garde: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Modernism is a more commonly used term than avant-garde in everyday language, as it has had a broader impact on culture and society. However, avant-garde is still used in discussions of art and aesthetics, particularly in academic and artistic circles.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between modernism and avant-garde?
Both modernism and avant-garde can be used in formal and informal contexts, but modernism is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, while avant-garde is more specific to discussions of art and aesthetics.
