antagonism
an-TAG-uh-niz-uhm
/ænˈtæɡəˌnɪzəm/
Active hostility or opposition.
Refers to a deep-seated, active, and often emotional state of friction between two parties, rather than a polite business competition.
The story behind the word. Antagonism comes from the Greek 'antagonizesthai', from 'anti-' (against) and 'agonizesthai' (to struggle or contend). The root 'agon' refers to a public contest or struggle, making antagonism an active, hostile struggle against another.
Word relationships
- hostility: Hostility is an aggressive state of mind; antagonism is an active, structural opposition where one force pushes against another.
- animosity: Animosity is a strong feeling of dislike or ill will, whereas antagonism is the active expression of that opposition.
- harmony: Harmony is a state of peaceful agreement and cooperation.
- affinity: Affinity is a natural liking or sympathy for someone or something.
Commonly confused with
- apathy: Antagonism is active, hostile opposition; apathy is a complete lack of interest or emotion.
Word family
- antagonist (noun): A person who actively opposes or is hostile to someone; an adversary.
- antagonistic (adjective): Showing or feeling active opposition or hostility.
Collocations
- mutual antagonism
- arouse antagonism
- personal antagonism
- growing antagonism
Example sentences
- "The deep-seated antagonism between the two political factions made a bipartisan compromise impossible." Political climate
Memory hook
An ANTAGONIST in a story creates ANTAGONISM for the protagonist. Active, hostile struggle against another.
When not to use
Do not use for a simple disagreement; antagonism implies an ongoing, hostile relationship or attitude.
Fun facts
- In biochemistry, an 'antagonist' is a substance that binds to a receptor but does not activate it, instead blocking the active chemicals from working.
Explore more words
enmity, animosity, antagonize, antipathy, antagonist, rancorous
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