1. to take apart or break down into component parts
2. to analyze by examining the basic elements or structure
3. to challenge or expose the contradictions in a text or theory
Usage: literary criticism; philosophy

Examples

• The mechanic deconstructs the engine to find the problem.
• She deconstructs the argument to reveal its flaws.
• The professor deconstructs classic novels to show hidden meanings.
• The team deconstructs the old building piece by piece.
• He deconstructs traditional gender roles in his research.
• The critic deconstructs the film’s narrative structure.