avant-garde
/ˌæv.ɒ̃ˈɡɑːd/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Very modern, original, and unusual in style or ideas. It is often used for art, fashion, music, or thinking that is ahead of its time.
- They chose an avant-garde design for the gallery.
- Her fashion style is bold and avant-garde.
noun
People or works that are very new, experimental, and different from what is usual. It can also mean a movement in art or culture.
- The film belongs to the avant-garde.
- Many writers admired the avant-garde of the 1920s.
Adinary Nuance
Avant-garde is stronger and more artistic than modern or innovative. Use it when something feels experimental, unusual, and ahead of current taste. It often sounds positive in art and design, but it can also suggest something difficult or not for everyone.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- tiên phong
- Spanish
- vanguardista
- Chinese
- 前卫
- Japanese
- 前衛的な
- Korean
- 아방가르드
Etymology
From French avant-garde, meaning 'advance guard' or 'vanguard'. English took it in the 19th century, first in art and politics.
Common phrases
avant-garde artavant-garde fashionavant-garde musicthe avant-garde movement
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is avant-garde positive or negative?
- Usually positive, especially in art and design. It can also mean unusual or hard to understand.
- What is the difference between avant-garde and modern?
- Modern means current or from the present time. Avant-garde means very original and experimental.
- Can I use avant-garde in business writing?
- Yes, but mostly for design, branding, or ideas. It is less common for everyday business language.
- Is avant-garde a formal word?
- Yes, it is fairly formal. You will often see it in writing about art, culture, and style.