Meta

Meta refers to something that is about itself or of the same type; self-referential. It denotes a higher-order concept, reflecting on or analyzing its own category or structure. It can also describe an underlying meaning or message, transcending a literal interpretation. Furthermore, in the context of gaming or competition, 'meta' frequently describes the dominant strategies or popular choices at a particular point in time, shaping player behavior. It is a prefix, commonly used to indicate a concept that is abstract, self-aware, or reflective, offering deeper insights beyond the surface level. The term encourages an awareness of the process of meaning creation, communication, or gameplay itself.

Meta meaning with examples

• The film employed meta-commentary, with the characters frequently acknowledging they were in a movie, breaking the fourth wall to engage directly with the audience. This reflexive approach served to critique the conventions of the genre, simultaneously entertaining and deconstructing them. This allowed the viewers to reflect on their film viewing experience, causing a meta-analysis of the story.
• The company's social media campaign was meta, using humor to point out the absurdity of advertising and the self-promotional nature of branding. It was a comment on consumerism. This created a buzz by drawing attention to the very tools it was employing to sell products. This approach, designed to attract attention, was considered a meta marketing strategy.
• The online game had a constantly evolving meta, where the optimal strategies and character builds shifted with each patch and balance update. Players were expected to research the meta, adjusting their playstyles to adapt to the current metagame and maintain a competitive edge. This meant that there was a learning curve each time updates occurred.
• The philosophical discussion explored the meta-narrative of history, examining the underlying frameworks and ideologies that shape historical accounts. It involved analyzing broader trends. This allowed an examination of the assumptions that inform different perspectives. This created a meta-study of human history to view the bigger picture, looking beyond specific events.