antagonist
an-TAG-uh-nist
/ænˈtæɡ.ən.ɪst/
A person, group, or force that actively opposes or contends against the main character.
Acts as the chief source of external friction for the main character.
The story behind the word. From Greek anti- (against) and agōnistēs (contender). It described an adversary competing directly against the lead actor in Athenian theatrical contests.
Word relationships
- adversary: Adversary is any general opponent, whereas antagonist is specifically framed in contrast to a protagonist.
- protagonist: The protagonist is the main character whom the antagonist opposes.
Commonly confused with
- villain: A villain is inherently evil, while an antagonist is simply an opposing narrative force.
Word family
- antagonize (verb): To provoke hostility or opposition.
- antagonistic (adjective): Showing active opposition or hostility.
Collocations
- primary antagonist
- formidable antagonist
- sympathetic antagonist
- relentless antagonist
Example sentences
- "The antagonist in the play is not a monster, but a cold bureaucrat enforcing strict laws." Dramatic analysis
Memory hook
ANTI = Against the main actor. Force fighting against the lead.
When not to use
An antagonist is not always a evil villain; they can simply be someone with conflicting goals.
Fun facts
- In some celebrated literary works, the antagonist is not a human being at all, but a harsh environment (such as the sea in The Old Man and the Sea).
Related words
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