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Antithetical Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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antithetical

[หŒรฆntษชหˆฮธetษชkl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

opposite

Directly opposed or contrasted; mutually incompatible.

Synonyms

contradictory, incompatible, opposite.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
antithetical

Use this word in formal or academic contexts when discussing something that is in direct opposition or contrast to another thing.

  • His views on environmental policy are antithetical to those of the new administration.
  • The two theories are antithetical and cannot be reconciled.
contradictory

This term is useful in situations where two things are mutually exclusive or logically inconsistent. It fits well in both casual and formal discussions.

  • The witness gave contradictory statements during the investigation.
  • Her behavior is often contradictory to what she claims to believe.
opposite

This is a common, everyday term used to indicate things that are completely different from each other. It works in both casual and formal contexts.

  • His opinion is the exact opposite of mine.
  • The two cities are located on opposite sides of the country.
incompatible

Use this word when describing things, people, or ideas that cannot coexist or work well together. It is appropriate for both formal and informal settings.

  • The software is incompatible with the latest operating system.
  • Their personalities are so incompatible that it's hard to believe they were ever friends.

Examples of usage

  • His actions were antithetical to his beliefs.
  • The two theories are antithetical to each other.
Context #2 | Adjective

contrary

Contrary to the very nature or character of something.

Synonyms

conflicting, contrary, opposing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
antithetical

This word is used in formal or academic settings to describe things that are directly opposite or incompatible with each other.

  • His actions were antithetical to his words
  • The two theories are antithetical and cannot be reconciled
conflicting

This word is used when there are disagreements or clashes between ideas, opinions, or interests. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • The conflicting interests in the company caused a lot of tension
  • The witness gave conflicting accounts of the event
contrary

This word is used to describe situations where something is opposite in nature, direction, or meaning. It is often used when discussing perspectives or opinions.

  • His beliefs are contrary to mine
  • The results were contrary to expectations
opposing

This word is used to describe forces, ideas, or teams that are set against each other. It is commonly used in competitive or confrontational contexts.

  • The opposing teams played a tough match
  • The politician faced many opposing views on the policy

Examples of usage

  • Her behavior was antithetical to the norms of the society.
  • The proposal was antithetical to our core values.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In Hegelian philosophy, antithesis refers to the contradiction that arises from an initial concept, leading to progress in thought.
  • This concept is crucial for dialectical reasoning, where opposing ideas come together to form a new synthesis.
  • Antithetical thinking encourages critical analysis, helping philosophers and thinkers explore complex ideas and reach deeper understanding.

Literature

  • Many authors utilize antithetical elements in their works to create tension, highlight conflict, or deepen themes.
  • Famous literary characters often represent antithetical traits, like good versus evil, which resonates with audiences across cultures.
  • Shakespeare frequently employed antithesis in his plays, contrasting charactersโ€™ motives and desires to engage viewers.

Psychology

  • Cognitive dissonance is an antithetical concept experienced when a person holds contradictory beliefs or attitudes.
  • Understanding and resolving antithetical ideas can help improve mental well-being, promoting personal growth.
  • Psychological theorists often explore how antithetical emotions, such as love and hate, coexist within individuals.

Art

  • Visual artists often use antithetical contrasts, such as light vs. dark, to evoke emotions or guide the viewer's focus.
  • In surrealism, antithetical imagery can create a sense of dream-like absurdity, challenging viewersโ€™ perceptions of reality.
  • Antithetical themes in art can prompt discussions about societal issues, inviting audiences to reflect on opposing viewpoints.

Origin of 'antithetical'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'antithetical' comes from the Greek word 'antithetikos', meaning 'opposed'.
  • It combines the prefix 'anti-' (against) with 'tithenai' (to place), suggesting two opposing ideas are placed against each other.
  • The term has been used in English since the late 16th century, showing a long-standing interest in contrasting ideas.

The word 'antithetical' comes from the Greek word 'antitithenai', which means 'to oppose'. It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe things that are directly opposed or contrasted. The concept of antithesis, of opposing ideas or words, has been a common literary device throughout history, used to create contrast and emphasize differences.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,339, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.