Antithesis: meaning, definitions and examples

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antithesis

[ænˈtɪθəsɪs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

literature

A person or thing that is the direct opposite of someone or something else.

Synonyms

contrary, opposite, reverse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
antithesis	Used to describe a direct opposite or a contrast between two things, often in philosophical or literary contexts. Love is the antithesis of hate The film explores the antithesis of freedom and captivity
opposite	Used to describe something that is completely different from something else, commonly used in everyday language. She sat on the opposite side of the table Hot is the opposite of cold
contrary	Used to indicate an opposite direction, opinion, or feeling. This word is often used in debate or discussion to show that two ideas do not align. His views are contrary to mine The results were contrary to our expectations
reverse	Used when indicating a complete change in direction or position, often in technical or mechanical contexts. He put the car in reverse The company had to reverse its decision

Examples of usage

Love is the antithesis of selfishness.
The character of Dr. Jekyll in the novel is the antithesis of Mr. Hyde.
The peaceful protests were the antithesis of the violent riots.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

rhetoric

A rhetorical device in which two opposite ideas are put together in a sentence to achieve a contrasting effect.

Synonyms

contradiction, contrast, opposition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
antithesis	Used when presenting two ideas, concepts, or terms that are completely opposite to highlight a stark contrast. Often found in formal writing or literary analysis. The antithesis of love is not hate, but indifference. Her calm demeanor was the antithesis of his fiery temper.
contrast	Used to highlight differences between two or more subjects, often in order to compare them. Suitable for general descriptions and analysis. The bright colors of the flowers stand in contrast to the dark, gloomy sky. When you contrast urban and rural lifestyles, you notice significant differences.
opposition	Used to indicate strong disagreement or resistance, often in a conflict, debate, or competitive scenario. Can carry a confrontational tone. There was significant opposition to the new law. The opposition party voiced their concerns about the budget plan.
contradiction	Used to show a situation or statement that directly opposes or conflicts with another, often implying inconsistency or falsehood. Commonly used in arguments and discussions. His actions were in direct contradiction to his words. There is a contradiction in your statement; you said it was true, but now you claim it's false.

Examples of usage

To err is human, to forgive divine.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek 'antithesis,' which means 'opposition' or 'contrast.'
It combines 'anti,' meaning 'against,' with 'thesis,' which means 'a statement or position.'
In ancient rhetoric, antithesis was used to create a dramatic effect by placing opposing ideas close together.

Literature

Famous authors like Shakespeare used antithesis to create memorable lines, contrasting characters or ideas to evoke emotion.
Antithesis appears in classic literature, where characters may represent opposing moral views, like good vs. evil.
Writers often use antithesis to enhance poetic devices, making verses more impactful and thought-provoking.

Philosophy

Philosophers like Hegel discussed antithesis as part of the dialectic process, where opposing ideas lead to new understandings.
In philosophical arguments, establishing an antithesis helps clarify one's own thesis by highlighting discrepancies.
In ethical discussions, antithesis helps to explore moral dilemmas by juxtaposing conflicting values or principles.

Pop Culture

In movies and literature, the classic hero vs. villain dynamic often represents an antithesis, highlighting stark moral differences.
Many popular songs use antithesis in their lyrics to express complex emotions, contrasting love and loss.
Reality TV often thrives on antithesis, portraying characters with opposing views to create drama and tension.

Rhetoric

Public speakers frequently use antithesis to emphasize their points and make speeches more engaging.
Politicians may establish antithesis in their arguments to showcase differences in policy or ideology.
It serves as an effective persuasive technique, allowing speakers to draw clear lines between choices.

Translations

Translations of the word "antithesis" in other languages:

🇵🇹 antítese

🇮🇳 विलोम

🇩🇪 Antithese

🇮🇩 antitesis

🇺🇦 антитеза

🇵🇱 antyteza

🇯🇵 対立

🇫🇷 antithèse

🇪🇸 antítesis

🇹🇷 antitez

🇰🇷 대조

🇸🇦 نقيض

🇨🇿 antiteze

🇸🇰 antitéza

🇨🇳 对立

🇸🇮 antiteza

🇮🇸 andstæða

🇰🇿 қарама-қайшылық

🇬🇪 ანტითეზა

🇦🇿 antitez

🇲🇽 antítesis

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,888, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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14885 assorted
14886 trophy
14887 peg
14888 antithesis
14889 chained
14890 virulence
14891 duplex
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