Definition

1. Noun:
   • A rhetorical device involving the juxtaposition of contrasting words or ideas to create a balanced effect: "Antithesis" is a figure of speech where opposite or contrasting concepts are placed in close proximity, often in parallel grammatical structures, to highlight their difference.
   • The direct or exact opposite of something: "Antithesis" can also refer to a person, thing, or idea that is the complete opposite of another.

Examples of Usage

• As a rhetorical device:
  • "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times..." is a famous example of antithesis.
  • The speaker used antithesis, contrasting "hope" with "despair," to emphasize his point.
• As the exact opposite:
  • His selfish behavior is the antithesis of kindness.
  • The chaotic city was the antithesis of the peaceful village she remembered.

Advanced Usage

• In philosophical or critical discourse: The term is often used to describe a fundamental opposition between two concepts or theories.
  • The debate centered on the antithesis between freedom and security.
• In dialectical reasoning (Hegelian/Marxist): "Antithesis" refers to the second stage in a dialectical process, opposing the initial thesis, leading to a synthesis.
  • For Hegel, every thesis generates its own antithesis.

Variants and Related Words

• Antithetical (adj): Being in direct and unequivocal opposition.
  • His actions were antithetical to his stated principles.
• Antithetically (adv): In an antithetical manner.
  • The two leaders spoke antithetically on the issue.

Synonyms

• Opposite: Something diametrically different.
• Contrary: A thing that is opposite in nature.
• Reverse: The opposite side or aspect.
• Inverse: Something that is reversed in position, order, or relationship.

Related Phrases

• The antithesis of: A common phrase used to state that something is the complete opposite.
  • Her calm demeanor was the antithesis of panic.

Related Idioms

• To be the living antithesis of: To be a person who embodies the exact opposite qualities.
  • The generous philanthropist was the living antithesis of greed.

Noun

1. the juxtaposition of contrasting words or ideas to give a feeling of balance
2. exact opposite
   • his theory is the antithesis of mine