dialectical

American  

[dahy-uh-lek-ti-kuhl] / ˌdaɪ əˈlɛk tɪ kəl /

adjective

1. dialectic.

2. of or characteristic of a dialect; dialectal.

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dialectical British  

/ ˌdaɪəˈlɛktɪkəl /

adjective

1. of or relating to dialectic or dialectics

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Usage

See dialectal.

Other Word Forms

• dialectically adverb
• nondialectical adjective
• nondialectically adverb
• undialectical adjective

Etymology

Origin of dialectical

First recorded in 1520–30; dialectic + -al ¹

Example Sentences

"I've tried antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, benzos, sleeping pills and stimulants, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy... tai chi, reiki, meditation, veganism, art therapy and music therapy," the former stand-up comedian said.

From Barron's • Feb. 25, 2026

That was not, in Hobsbawm’s analysis, a straight-up clash between good and evil or enlightenment and darkness; he was a non-dogmatic Marxist, always attuned to the nuanced dialectical relationship between historical forces.

From Salon • Dec. 7, 2025

The first line of treatment for borderline personality disorder is dialectical behavioral therapy, a talk therapy centered on examining and countering negative emotions.

From Slate • Sep. 29, 2024

Byrne, playing opposite himself, brings these sides of Beckett’s consciousness to dialectical life.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 9, 2024

I was attracted to the scientific underpinnings of dialectical materialism, for I am always inclined to trust what I can verify.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela