Antithesis: meaning, definitions and examples

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antithesis

 

[ ænˈtɪθəsɪs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

literature

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

Synonyms

contrary, opposite, reverse

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

Examples of usage

  • To err is human, to forgive divine.

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 origin

The word 'antithesis' originated from the Greek word 'antithesis', which means 'opposition' or 'contrast'. It has been used in English literature and rhetoric for centuries to create a powerful effect by juxtaposing contrasting ideas. The concept of antithesis has been a fundamental element in various forms of writing, from poetry to speeches, to emphasize the difference between two things. Understanding antithesis helps in creating compelling arguments and expressing complex ideas concisely.

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.