Definition of Anachronism
Quick Meaning of Anachronism
Something that doesn't belong to its time period; something placed in the wrong time in history.
Detailed Definition of Anachronism
Something that is out of its proper historical time; an element belonging to a different period introduced into a story.
How to Pronounce Anachronism
Stress pattern: oOoo (4-syllable word).
Tip: An-uh-KRON-ism. Stress second syllable (KRON). Four syllables.
Watch out: Stress pattern is oOoo.
Origin and Etymology of Anachronism
From Greek 'ana' (back) + 'chronos' (time). Refers to temporal misplacement.
How to Use Anachronism in a Sentence
Each example shows “anachronism” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The film's anachronism—a character using a smartphone in a medieval setting—broke historical authenticity.”
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“The author's deliberate anachronism of modern dialogue in a historical novel created deliberate dissonance.”
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“That reference to television in a Victorian-era novel is a clear anachronism.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Anachronism
Common Synonyms for Anachronism
Smart Synonyms for Anachronism — When to Use Each
- temporal error
- General time-related mistake; broader than anachronism
- inconsistency
- Contradiction in narrative; broader than anachronism
- error
- General mistake; less specific to time
Antonyms of Anachronism
Common Collocations with Anachronism
These phrases pair with “anachronism” in everyday English:
- obvious anachronism
- deliberate anachronism
- historical anachronism
- temporal anachronism
Common Mistakes When Using Anachronism
Even fluent speakers slip up with “anachronism”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The anachronism perfectly matched the time period of the story.
- ✓ Correct: The anachronism violated the historical period of the story.
- Why: Anachronism by definition is out of place temporally.
- ✗ Wrong: The anachronism enhanced the historical authenticity of the narrative.
- ✓ Correct: The anachronism undermined the historical authenticity of the narrative.
- Why: Anachronisms violate rather than support historical accuracy.
- ✗ Wrong: Historical novels should contain many anachronisms for modern appeal.
- ✓ Correct: Historical novels should minimize anachronisms to maintain period authenticity.
- Why: Anachronisms generally detract from historical fiction unless deliberately used.
Words Confused With Anachronism
Other Forms of Anachronism
- Noun: anachronism
- Adjective: anachronistic
Frequently Asked Questions About Anachronism
What is the meaning of "Anachronism"?
Something that doesn't belong to its time period; something placed in the wrong time in history.
How do you pronounce "Anachronism"?
The IPA is /əˈnækrənɪzəm/. An-uh-KRON-ism. Stress second syllable (KRON). Four syllables.
What part of speech is "Anachronism"?
"Anachronism" is a noun at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Anachronism"?
Common synonyms include temporal error, historical inconsistency, temporal violation.
How do you use "Anachronism" in a sentence?
For example: "The film's anachronism—a character using a smartphone in a medieval setting—broke historical authenticity."