antithetical

American  

[an-tuh-thet-i-kuhl] / ˌæn təˈθɛt ɪ kəl /

Archaic, antithetic

adjective

1. of the nature of or involving antithesis.

2. directly opposed or contrasted; opposite.

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antithetical British  

/ ˌæntɪˈθɛtɪkəl /

adjective

1. of the nature of antithesis

2. directly contrasted

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Other Word Forms

• antithetically adverb

Etymology

Origin of antithetical

First recorded in 1575–85; from Greek antithetikós “setting in opposition, contrasting” (from antíthetos “opposed”) + -al; antithesis ( def. ), -tic ( def. ), -al ¹ ( def. ).

Example Sentences

Kennedy is no fool — he knows that his efforts are more antithetical to democracy than he lets on.

From Salon

In a way, my thinking this deeply about it might run antithetical to the spirit of “Seinfeld,” famously known as a show about nothing.

From New York Times

In many ways, the outcome is a reminder of how corporate power and greed are antithetical to and actively undermine real democracy.

From Salon

Though the frustration is understandable, such vigilante-style fantasies are antithetical to a good relationship between two countries.

From Los Angeles Times

"Silencing legislators on the basis of their views or their participation in protected speech or protest is antithetical to American democracy and values," the letter continues.

From Salon

Related Words

• contradictory