archetype

Definitions

arch(e)- (first, original) + type (mold, pattern) = "the original mold." An archetype is the very first pattern that all later versions copy — the defining, primal model of its kind. Note: this uses the arch- 'first' sense, not the archaeo- 'ancient' sense, even though both trace to Greek arkhē.

Why It Means This

Set archetype against its cousin stereotype to feel the difference: both are 'molds,' but archetype points back to the rich original (the hero, the wise mentor, the rebel), while stereotype is a flattened copy forced onto real people. In psychology (Jung), archetypes are the deep, universal patterns we all recognize; in everyday use, 'the archetype of X' means the purest, most defining example.

Common Collocations

• 1.the archetype of……的原型
• 2.classic archetype经典原型
• 3.literary archetype文学原型
• 4.cultural archetype文化原型

Example Sentences

• 1.

  Sherlock Holmes became the archetype of the brilliant detective.

• 2.

  The story draws on the archetype of the reluctant hero.

• 3.

  Jung described archetypes as universal patterns in the human mind.

Easily Confused

archetype vs stereotype — Both come from type (mold). An archetype is the rich, original pattern others descend from (the hero archetype); it's usually neutral or positive. A stereotype is a rigid, oversimplified copy stamped onto a real group; it's usually negative. Original model → archetype; flattened cliché → stereotype.