Antagonize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐คฌ
antagonize
[รฆnหtรฆษกษหnaษชz ]
Definitions
in a conflict
To provoke hostility or anger in someone, especially in a deliberate and persistent way. To act in a way that is likely to cause someone to become angry or to oppose you.
Synonyms
anger, antagonise, irritate, provoke.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| antagonize |
Use when someone is causing someone else to become hostile or opposed, often through persistent actions or words.
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| provoke |
Usually used when someone is deliberately trying to elicit a reaction, often a negative one. It often implies a calculated action to cause someone to respond emotionally or take action.
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| irritate |
Best used when referring to minor annoyances or discomforts that build up over time. It often has a less intense connotation than 'anger' or 'antagonize'.
|
| antagonise |
This is the British English spelling of 'antagonize'. The context and examples are similar to those of 'antagonize'.
|
| anger |
Used to indicate causing someone to feel strong displeasure or rage. It is a straightforward term that covers a wide range of situations.
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Examples of usage
- He constantly antagonized his coworkers by making rude comments.
- She knew that bringing up politics at the family dinner would antagonize her conservative relatives.
- Don't antagonize the situation any further, it's already tense.
in a competitive situation
To compete with or oppose someone in a hostile manner. To act in a way that is likely to provoke a reaction or response.
Synonyms
challenge, compete, oppose, rival.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| antagonize |
Used when someone provokes hostility or deliberately makes someone else angry. Negative connotation.
|
| compete |
Used when individuals or groups strive to win something over others, such as in sports, business, or other fields. Neutral or positive connotation.
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| oppose |
Used when someone actively resists or is against something. Often has a formal or organized connotation.
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| challenge |
Used when someone questions or contests something, often seeking to improve or test it. It does not necessarily have a negative connotation.
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| rival |
Used when referring to someone who competes with another, often over a long period, in similar fields or activities. Neutral connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The two rival companies continued to antagonize each other in the market.
- She didn't mean to antagonize her teammates, but her competitive nature sometimes got the best of her.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often antagonize others to gain a sense of control or power in a situation.
- It can create defensive reactions, leading to conflicts that are hard to resolve.
- Understanding why we antagonize can help improve communication and relationships.
Pop Culture
- Antagonizers are common characters in movies and books, often creating tension in the plot.
- Villains that antagonize heroes have become iconic, serving as a reflection of our struggles with conflict.
- Reality TV often amplifies antagonistic behavior for dramatic effect, attracting audiences eager for conflict.
Literature
- In many stories, the antagonist is a character who opposes the protagonist, driving the storyline.
- Classic literature often explores the psychological motivations behind antagonizing behavior.
- Famous duels in literature symbolize deep enmity, showcasing the personal stakes of antagonism.
Social Dynamics
- Antagonizing can occur in friendships, workplaces, or online interactions, leading to toxic environments.
- Understanding the roots of antagonistic behavior can foster empathy and conflict resolution skills.
- Studies show that addressing antagonism directly can lead to healthier relationships.
Origin of 'antagonize'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'antagonizesthai,' meaning 'to contend against.'
- It combines 'anti-' meaning 'against' and 'agon' meaning 'struggle' or 'contest.'
- Initially used in literature, it has evolved over time to commonly describe interpersonal conflict.
The word 'antagonize' originated from the Greek word 'antagonizesthai', which means 'to struggle against'. It first appeared in English in the early 17th century. Over time, 'antagonize' has come to be associated with the idea of provoking conflict or opposition, whether intentionally or unintentionally.