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Antithesis
01
the direct opposite or contrasting counterpart to something
02
a figure of speech in which two ideas or concepts are arranged in parallel clauses, words, or sentences to express a contrast
What is "antithesis"?
Antithesis is a rhetorical device that involves placing two opposing ideas or phrases next to each other to highlight their differences. This contrast helps to emphasize the distinct qualities of each idea. For example, in the phrase "Give me liberty, or give me death", the antithesis contrasts "liberty" with "death", emphasizing the speaker's strong choice between two extreme options. By setting these opposing ideas side by side, antithesis creates a more impactful and memorable statement.
antithesis
n
thesis
n
Example
Dark is the antithesis of light, just as ignorance is the antithesis of knowledge.
Dark is the antithesis of light, just as ignorance is the antithesis of knowledge.
Throughout his career, Dostoyevsky explored psychological antitheses like good vs evil, faith vs doubt.
Whereas optimism sees possibilities, pessimism is more or less its antithesis of always anticipating the worst.
The dialectic process involves thesis, antithesis, and synthesis, where conflicting ideas are confronted and reconciled to arrive at a higher truth.
