Basic Details
Word: Antithesis
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A contrast or opposition between two things, often used in writing or speech to highlight a point.
Synonyms: Opposite, contrast, contradiction
Antonyms: Similarity, harmony
Idioms and Phrases
- Standing in stark antithesis: Used to describe two things that are very different from each other. Example: "Her cheerful attitude was standing in stark antithesis to his gloomy mood."
- In sharp antithesis: To emphasise a strong difference between two ideas or situations. Example: "The bright sun was in sharp antithesis to the dark storm brewing on the horizon."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The antithesis of love is often considered to be hate, showcasing the range of human emotions.
Example 2: In his speech, he presented the antithesis of our values compared to those of the rival team.
Example 3: The artist created a painting that was an antithesis of bright colours and dark themes.
Fun Fact
The word "antithesis" comes from the Greek word "antitithenai," which means "to set against" a fitting origin for a word that describes contrasts.
Famous Quote
"To be yourself in a world that is trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." - Ralph Waldo Emerson. This quote highlights the antithesis between individuality and conformity.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "antithesis" mean?
a) A kind of flower
b) A contrast between two ideas
c) A type of food
d) A method of painting
Answer: b) A contrast between two ideas
2. Which of these is a synonym of "antithesis"?
a) Harmony
b) Opposite
c) Agreement
d) Similarity
Answer: b) Opposite
3. What is the antonym of "antithesis"?
a) Opposite
b) Harmony
c) Contrast
d) Conflict
Answer: b) Harmony
4. Which sentence uses "antithesis" correctly?
a) The antithesis was her favourite dish.
b) His argument presented the antithesis between the two theories.
c) The antithesis drove to the store.
d) They enjoyed the antithesis at the concert.
Answer: b) His argument presented the antithesis between the two theories.
5. Which phrase means the same as "antithesis"?
a) In sharp antithesis
b) Sitting in silence
c) Running in circles
d) Breaking the ice
Answer: a) In sharp antithesis
