Oppositional Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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oppositional

[ˌɒpəˈzɪʃənl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

politics

Relating to or marked by opposition; contrasting or opposed.

Synonyms

antagonistic, conflicting, contrary, dissenting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
oppositional	Used to describe a person or group that consistently resists or blocks the ideas or policies of others. The oppositional party refused to support the new legislation
contrary	Describes something that is opposite in nature, direction, or meaning. Often used to highlight opposite views or behavior. She has a very contrary opinion on the matter
antagonistic	Describes a strong feeling of hostility or opposition, often involving active resistance or aggression. Negative connotation. Their antagonistic attitude made it difficult to find a compromise
dissenting	Used when expressing disagreement, especially in a formal setting like court decisions or political votes. The judge wrote a dissenting opinion in the case
conflicting	Best used when describing things that are incompatible or mutually exclusive, such as ideas, plans, or feelings. The conflicting reports from witnesses made it hard to determine the truth

Examples of usage

The two candidates have very different and oppositional views on healthcare.
The oppositional parties in parliament could not reach a compromise on the new law.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

psychology

Of, relating to, or marked by opposition or an antagonistic attitude.

Synonyms

contrary, defiant, obstinate, rebellious.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
oppositional	Used to describe someone who often disagrees with others, especially in a firm or determined way. He had an oppositional stance in every meeting. The oppositional views within the group created tension.
defiant	Describes a person who openly resists or refuses to obey authority, often used in a stronger and somewhat negative sense. The defiant child refused to do his homework. Her defiant attitude caused conflicts with the teachers.
rebellious	Describes a person who resists authority, control, or tradition, often in an open and bold manner, usually used in a negative context. The rebellious teenager often skipped classes. His rebellious actions worried his parents.
contrary	Refers to someone or something that is opposite or very different in nature, opinion, or action, often used to describe someone who is difficult or argumentative. She always had a contrary opinion. His contrary nature made collaboration challenging.
obstinate	Used when someone stubbornly refuses to change their opinion or action, even when presented with good reasons to do so, often in a negative sense. He was obstinate and refused to listen to any advice. Her obstinate behavior made it difficult to reach an agreement.

Examples of usage

The child's oppositional behavior made it challenging for the teacher to manage the classroom.
In psychology, oppositional behavior can be a symptom of certain disorders.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

In psychology, 'oppositional behavior' often refers to children who may resist authority figures, which can be part of normal development.
Treatment for oppositional behavior may include therapy focusing on communication and conflict resolution skills.
The term describes traits found in various conditions, including Oppositional Defiant Disorder, where a child consistently disobeys or argues.

Sociology

Social movements often have oppositional stances, where groups fight against societal norms or policies they see as unfair.
Political parties in a democracy frequently take oppositional roles to challenge each other's ideas and policies, leading to debates.
Oppositional attitudes can influence group dynamics, sometimes fostering growth by challenging the status quo.

Education

In classroom settings, oppositional behavior can be seen when students challenge authority or rules, prompting discussions about respect and boundaries.
Teachers often employ strategies to redirect oppositional behavior into constructive dialogue to foster a positive learning environment.
Understanding oppositional traits can help educators create tailored approaches to engage different types of learners.

Pop Culture

In literature, characters with oppositional traits often create tension; think of the classic hero versus villain dynamic.
Music genres like punk rock can embody an oppositional spirit, challenging social norms and expressing dissent against authority.
Films often showcase oppositional characters who fight against unjust systems, prompting audiences to reflect on societal issues.

Philosophy

Oppositional thinking plays a critical role in philosophical debates, where contrasting ideas are examined to deepen understanding.
Dialectical reasoning explores the balance between opposing forces, suggesting that conflict drives progress in knowledge.
Philosophers like Hegel emphasized the importance of oppositional ideas in evolving thought and knowledge.

Origin of 'oppositional'

The word "oppositional" originated from the Latin word "opponere," which means "to set against." It first appeared in the English language in the mid-19th century. The term is commonly used in politics to describe opposing views or parties, as well as in psychology to refer to behaviors characterized by opposition or defiance.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,811, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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20808 exhibitor
20809 caged
20810 figurines
20811 oppositional
20812 prudential
20813 impeding
20814 organically
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