contemporize: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, academic, business
Quick answer
What does “contemporize” mean?
To make something modern or suitable for the present time.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To make something modern or suitable for the present time.
To adapt, synchronize, or present something in a way that aligns it with current styles, ideas, or practices. This can involve updating language, technology, aesthetics, or methodology.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The spelling '-ise' is standard in British English, though '-ize' is also accepted by some. American English exclusively uses '-ize'. British English may show a slight preference for synonyms like 'modernise' or 'update' in everyday contexts.
Connotations
Similar in both variants: suggests an active, often thoughtful process of adaptation, not merely a superficial change.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both varieties, used predominantly in specialized writing. Arguably more frequent in American academic/business prose.
Grammar
How to Use “contemporize” in a Sentence
[Subject] + contemporize + [Direct Object] (transitive)[Subject] + seek/aim/attempt + to + contemporize + [Direct Object]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “contemporize” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The museum plans to contemporise its exhibits to attract a wider audience.
- The director sought to contemporise the Shakespearean play by setting it in a modern corporate office.
American English
- The company hired a consultant to contemporize its brand image.
- To remain relevant, the curriculum must be contemporized every few years.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
We need to contemporize our marketing strategy to connect with younger demographics.
Academic
The scholar aimed to contemporize the medieval text by analysing it through a postmodern lens.
Everyday
They decided to contemporize their old kitchen by installing smart appliances and new lighting. (Rare in casual speech; 'update' is more common)
Technical
The software library was contemporized to be compatible with the latest security protocols.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “contemporize”
- Mispronunciation: /ˈkɒn.təm.pɔː.raɪz/ (stressing the first syllable).
- Misspelling: 'contemporise' (US), 'contemporize' (UK variant accepted).
- Using it intransitively: e.g., 'The design contemporized.' (Incorrect; requires an object).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Modernize' is broader and more common, often implying technological or functional upgrades. 'Contemporize' is more specific, focusing on aligning with current styles, ideas, or sensibilities, making something feel 'of the present moment'.
It is not typically used about people themselves. You would not say 'He contemporized himself.' It is used for objects, ideas, methods, or artistic works (e.g., a brand, a curriculum, a play).
Yes, it is considered formal or academic. In everyday conversation, words like 'update', 'modernize', or 'revamp' are far more common and natural.
The direct noun is 'contemporization' (or 'contemporisation'), though it is very rare. More common nominalizations use the gerund 'contemporizing' or phrases like 'process of modernization' or 'update'.
To make something modern or suitable for the present time.
Contemporize: in British English it is pronounced /kənˈtem.pər.aɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /kənˈtem.pə.raɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to this word.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: CONtemporary + ize (to make). To make something contemporary.
Conceptual Metaphor
TIME IS A LINE / MOVEMENT. The past is brought forward to the present point on the timeline.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the closest synonym for 'contemporize' in a business context?