how to use antithesis in a sentence

Definition of Antithesis

Examples of antithesis in everyday speech, common examples of antithesis from famous speeches, examples of proverbs featuring antithesis, utilizing antithesis in writing, antithesis and parallelism, antithesis and juxtaposition, use of antithesis in sentences  , examples of antithesis in literature, example 1:  hamlet (william shakespeare).

Give every man thine ear, but few thy voice ; Take each man’s censure, but reserve thy judgment.

Example 2:  Paradise Lost  (John Milton)

Here at least We shall be free; the Almighty hath not built Here for his envy, will not drive us hence: Here we may reign secure, and in my choice To reign is worth ambition though in Hell: Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heaven.

Example 3:  Fire and Ice  (Robert Frost)

Some say the world will end in fire, Some say in ice. From what I’ve tasted of desire I hold with those who favor fire. But if it had to perish twice, I think I know enough of hate To say that for destruction ice Is also great And would suffice.

Example 4: The Gettysburg Address by Abraham Lincoln

We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives so that nation might live.

The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract.

The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.

Function of Antithesis

Synonyms of antithesis, post navigation.

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Examples of antithesis

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to smile in a way that expresses satisfaction or pleasure about having done something, or knowing something that is not known by someone else

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Antithesis Definition

What is antithesis? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

Antithesis is a figure of speech that juxtaposes two contrasting or opposing ideas, usually within parallel grammatical structures. For instance, Neil Armstrong used antithesis when he stepped onto the surface of the moon in 1969 and said, "That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind." This is an example of antithesis because the two halves of the sentence mirror each other in grammatical structure, while together the two halves emphasize the incredible contrast between the individual experience of taking an ordinary step, and the extraordinary progress that Armstrong's step symbolized for the human race.

Some additional key details about antithesis:

• Antithesis works best when it is used in conjunction with parallelism (successive phrases that use the same grammatical structure), since the repetition of structure makes the contrast of the content of the phrases as clear as possible.
• The word "antithesis" has another meaning, which is to describe something as being the opposite of another thing. For example, "love is the antithesis of selfishness." This guide focuses only on antithesis as a literary device.
• The word antithesis has its origins in the Greek word antithenai , meaning "to oppose." The plural of antithesis is antitheses.

How to Pronounce Antithesis

Here's how to pronounce antithesis: an- tith -uh-sis

Antithesis and Parallelism

Often, but not always, antithesis works in tandem with parallelism . In parallelism, two components of a sentence (or pair of sentences) mirror one another by repeating grammatical elements. The following is a good example of both antithesis and parallelism:

To err is human , to forgive divine .

The two clauses of the sentence are parallel because each starts off with an infinitive verb and ends with an adjective ("human" and "divine"). The mirroring of these elements then works to emphasize the contrast in their content, particularly in the very strong opposite contrast between "human" and "divine."

Antithesis Without Parallelism

In most cases, antitheses involve parallel elements of the sentence—whether a pair of nouns, verbs, adjectives, or other grammar elements. However, it is also possible to have antithesis without such clear cut parallelism. In the Temptations Song "My Girl," the singer uses antithesis when he says:

"When it's cold outside , I've got the month of May ."

Here the sentence is clearly cut into two clauses on either side of the comma, and the contrasting elements are clear enough. However, strictly speaking there isn't true parallelism here because "cold outside" and "month of May" are different types of grammatical structures (an adjective phrase and a noun phrase, respectively).

Antithesis vs. Related Terms

Three literary terms that are often mistakenly used in the place of antithesis are juxtaposition , oxymoron , and foil . Each of these three terms does have to do with establishing a relationship of difference between two ideas or characters in a text, but beyond that there are significant differences between them.

Antithesis vs. Juxtaposition

In juxtaposition , two things or ideas are placed next to one another to draw attention to their differences or similarities. In juxtaposition, the pairing of two ideas is therefore not necessarily done to create a relationship of opposition or contradiction between them, as is the case with antithesis. So, while antithesis could be a type of juxtaposition, juxtaposition is not always antithesis.

Antithesis vs. Oxymoron

In an oxymoron , two seemingly contradictory words are placed together because their unlikely combination reveals a deeper truth. Some examples of oxymorons include:

• Sweet sorrow
• Cruel kindness
• Living dead

The focus of antithesis is opposites rather than contradictions . While the words involved in oxymorons seem like they don't belong together (until you give them deeper thought), the words or ideas of antithesis do feel like they belong together even as they contrast as opposites. Further, antitheses seldom function by placing the two words or ideas right next to one another, so antitheses are usually made up of more than two words (as in, "I'd rather be among the living than among the dead").

Antithesis vs. Foil

Some Internet sources use "antithesis" to describe an author's decision to create two characters in a story that are direct opposites of one another—for instance, the protagonist and antagonist . But the correct term for this kind of opposition is a foil : a person or thing in a work of literature that contrasts with another thing in order to call attention to its qualities. While the sentence "the hare was fast, and the tortoise was slow" is an example of antithesis, if we step back and look at the story as a whole, the better term to describe the relationship between the characters of the tortoise and the hare is "foil," as in, "The character of the hare is a foil of the tortoise."

Antithesis Examples

Antithesis in literature.

Below are examples of antithesis from some of English literature's most acclaimed writers — and a comic book!

Antithesis in Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities

In the famous opening lines of A Tale of Two Cities , Dickens sets out a flowing list of antitheses punctuated by the repetition of the word "it was" at the beginning of each clause (which is itself an example of the figure of speech anaphora ). By building up this list of contrasts, Dickens sets the scene of the French Revolution that will serve as the setting of his tale by emphasizing the division and confusion of the era. The overwhelming accumulation of antitheses is also purposefully overdone; Dickens is using hyperbole to make fun of the "noisiest authorities" of the day and their exaggerated claims. The passage contains many examples of antithesis, each consisting of one pair of contrasting ideas that we've highlighted to make the structure clearer.

It was the best of times , it was the worst of times , it was the age of wisdom , it was the age of foolishness , it was the epoch of belief , it was the epoch of incredulity , it was the season of Light , it was the season of Darkness , it was the spring of hope , it was the winter of despair , we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven , we were all going direct the other way —in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only.

Antithesis in John Milton's Paradise Lost

In this verse from Paradise Lost , Milton's anti-hero , Satan, claims he's happier as the king of Hell than he could ever have been as a servant in Heaven. He justifies his rebellion against God with this pithy phrase, and the antithesis drives home the double contrast between Hell and Heaven, and between ruling and serving.

Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven.

Antithesis in William Shakespeare's Othello

As the plot of Othello nears its climax , the antagonist of the play, Iago, pauses for a moment to acknowledge the significance of what is about to happen. Iago uses antithesis to contrast the two opposite potential outcomes of his villainous plot: either events will transpire in Iago's favor and he will come out on top, or his treachery will be discovered, ruining him.

This is the night That either makes me or fordoes me quite .

In this passage, the simple word "either" functions as a cue for the reader to expect some form of parallelism, because the "either" signals that a contrast between two things is coming.

Antithesis in William Shakespeare's Hamlet

Shakespeare's plays are full of antithesis, and so is Hamlet's most well-known "To be or not to be" soliloquy . This excerpt of the soliloquy is a good example of an antithesis that is not limited to a single word or short phrase. The first instance of antithesis here, where Hamlet announces the guiding question (" to be or not to be ") is followed by an elaboration of each idea ("to be" and "not to be") into metaphors that then form their own antithesis. Both instances of antithesis hinge on an " or " that divides the two contrasting options.

To be or not to be , that is the question: Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune Or to take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing end them ...

Antithesis in T.S. Eliot's "Four Quartets"

In this excerpt from his poem "Four Quartets," T.S. Eliot uses antithesis to describe the cycle of life, which is continuously passing from beginning to end, from rise to fall, and from old to new.

In my beginning is my end . In succession Houses rise and fall , crumble, are extended, Are removed, destroyed, restored, or in their place Is an open field, or a factory, or a by-pass. Old stone to new building , old timber to new fires ...

Antithesis in Green Lantern's Oath

Comic book writers know the power of antithesis too! In this catchy oath, Green Lantern uses antithesis to emphasize that his mission to defeat evil will endure no matter the conditions.

In brightest day , in blackest night , No evil shall escape my sight. Let those who worship evil's might Beware my power—Green lantern's light!

While most instances of antithesis are built around an "or" that signals the contrast between the two parts of the sentence, the Green Lantern oath works a bit differently. It's built around an implied "and" (to be technical, that first line of the oath is an asyndeton that replaces the "and" with a comma), because members of the Green Lantern corps are expressing their willingness to fight evil in all places, even very opposite environments.

Antithesis in Speeches

Many well-known speeches contain examples of antithesis. Speakers use antithesis to drive home the stakes of what they are saying, sometimes by contrasting two distinct visions of the future.

Antithesis in Patrick Henry's Speech to the Second Virginia Convention, 1775

This speech by famous American patriot Patrick Henry includes one of the most memorable and oft-quoted phrases from the era of the American Revolution. Here, Henry uses antithesis to emphasize just how highly he prizes liberty, and how deadly serious he is about his fight to achieve it.

Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take: but as for me, give me liberty or give me death .

Antithesis in Martin Luther King Jr.'s Oberlin Commencement Address

In this speech by one of America's most well-known orators, antithesis allows Martin Luther King Jr. to highlight the contrast between two visions of the future; in the first vision, humans rise above their differences to cooperate with one another, while in the other humanity is doomed by infighting and division.

We must all learn to live together as brothers —or we will all perish together as fools .

Antithesis in Songs

In songs, contrasting two opposite ideas using antithesis can heighten the dramatic tension of a difficult decision, or express the singer's intense emotion—but whatever the context, antithesis is a useful tool for songwriters mainly because opposites are always easy to remember, so lyrics that use antithesis tend to stick in the head.

Antithesis in "Should I Stay or Should I Go" by The Clash (1981)

In this song by The Clash, the speaker is caught at a crossroads between two choices, and antithesis serves as the perfect tool to express just how confused and conflicted he is. The rhetorical question —whether to stay or to go—presents two opposing options, and the contrast between his lover's mood from one day (when everything is "fine") to the next (when it's all "black") explains the difficulty of his choice.

One day it's fine and next it's black So if you want me off your back Well, come on and let me know Should I stay or should I go ? Should I stay or should I go now? Should I stay or should I go now? If I go, there will be trouble If I stay it will be double ...

Antithesis in "My Girl" by the Temptations (1965)

In this song, the singer uses a pair of metaphors to describe the feeling of joy that his lover brings him. This joy is expressed through antithesis, since the singer uses the miserable weather of a cloudy, cold day as the setting for the sunshine-filled month of May that "his girl" makes him feel inside, emphasizing the power of his emotions by contrasting them with the bleak weather.

I've got sunshine on a cloudy day When it's cold outside I've got the month of May Well I guess you'd say, What can make me feel this way? My girl, my girl, my girl Talkin' bout my girl.

Why Do Writers Use Antithesis?

Fundamentally, writers of all types use antithesis for its ability to create a clear contrast. This contrast can serve a number of purposes, as shown in the examples above. It can:

• Present a stark choice between two alternatives.
• Convey magnitude or range (i.e. "in brightest day, in darkest night" or "from the highest mountain, to the deepest valley").
• Express strong emotions.
• Create a relationship of opposition between two separate ideas.
• Accentuate the qualities and characteristics of one thing by placing it in opposition to another.

Whatever the case, antithesis almost always has the added benefit of making language more memorable to listeners and readers. The use of parallelism and other simple grammatical constructions like "either/or" help to establish opposition between concepts—and opposites have a way of sticking in the memory.

Other Helpful Antithesis Resources

• The Wikipedia page on Antithesis : A useful summary with associated examples, along with an extensive account of antithesis in the Gospel of Matthew.
• Sound bites from history : A list of examples of antithesis in famous political speeches from United States history — with audio clips!
• A blog post on antithesis : This quick rundown of antithesis focuses on a quote you may know from Muhammad Ali's philosophy of boxing: "Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee."

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Home / Guides / Grammar Guides / Vocabulary Guides / Usage Guides / How To Use Antithesis In A Sentence

How To Use Antithesis In A Sentence

This helpful guide will show you how to use antithesis in a sentence. It will show you the definition of antithesis , as well as synonyms, antonyms, and the type of connotation that the word can carry.

Usage for antithesis

Definition: the opposite of something

Part(s) of speech: noun

Antonyms: same; similar; alike

Synonyms: contrast; inverse; counter

Here are but a few sample sentences of the word in action!

• Peace is the very antithesis of war.
• Our leader’s behavior is the anthesis of the principles that our country was founded upon.
• When I see them mix, it certainly seems like oil is the antithesis of water.
• That movie was the antithesis of great art; what a piece of garbage.
• I truly believe grief is the antithesis of joy. I’m having trouble seeing how you can help me feel better when I’ve just gone through this loss.
• I love when horror movies have elements of comedy because usually one genre is the antithesis of the other.
• In order to pass this bill, we need compromise. You have to understand that Democrats are not wholly the antithesis of Republicans.
• I’ve been a cynic my entire life. How can you expect me to be optimistic at a time like this when it would be the antithesis of my whole personality.
• A high school debate usually involves one side making an argument on a subject and the other side making an argument that is the antithesis argument on the same subject.
• I think Jeremy is good for me right now. He’s the antithesis of my ex-boyfriend, so it’s just what I need.
• People who think comic books are the antithesis of literature clearly have not read enough well-written comic books.
• How can you keep all the presents you bought just for yourself? That kind of attitude is the antithesis of the spirit of Christmas.
• I think you’ll agree; it’s very obvious that fire is the antithesis of ice .
• Some might say television is the antithesis of high art, but they clearly haven’t watched enough HBO.
• Censorship from the government is the very antithesis of a free press; how can you not see that?

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Definition of antithesis

Did you know.

Writers and speechmakers use the traditional pattern known as antithesis for its resounding effect; John Kennedy's famous "ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country" is an example. But antithesis normally means simply "opposite". Thus, war is the antithesis of peace, wealth is the antithesis of poverty, and love is the antithesis of hate. Holding two antithetical ideas in one's head at the same time—for example, that you're the sole master of your fate but also the helpless victim of your terrible upbringing—is so common as to be almost normal.

Examples of antithesis in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'antithesis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Late Latin, from Greek, literally, opposition, from antitithenai to oppose, from anti- + tithenai to set — more at do

1529, in the meaning defined at sense 1b(1)

Dictionary Entries Near antithesis

anti-theoretical

Cite this Entry

“Antithesis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antithesis. Accessed 5 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of antithesis, more from merriam-webster on antithesis.

Nglish: Translation of antithesis for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of antithesis for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about antithesis

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Literary Devices

Literary devices, terms, and elements, definition of antithesis, difference between antithesis and juxtaposition, common examples of antithesis, significance of antithesis in literature, examples of antithesis in literature.

HAMLET: To be, or not to be, that is the question— Whether ’tis Nobler in the mind to suffer The Slings and Arrows of outrageous Fortune, Or to take Arms against a Sea of troubles, And by opposing, end them?

( Hamlet by William Shakespeare)

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way…

( A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens)

There was only one catch and that was Catch-22, which specified that a concern for one’s own safety in the face of dangers that were real and immediate was the process of a rational mind. Orr was crazy and could be grounded. All he had to do was ask; and as soon as he did, he would no longer be crazy and would have to fly more missions. Orr would be crazy to fly more missions and sane if he didn’t, but if he was sane he had to fly them. If he flew them he was crazy and didn’t have to; but if he didn’t want to he was sane and had to. Yossarian was moved very deeply by the absolute simplicity of this clause of Catch-22 and let out a respectful whistle.

This case is not a difficult one, it requires no minute sifting of complicated facts, but it does require you to be sure beyond all reasonable doubt as to the guilt of the defendant.

( To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee)

In Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird , Atticus Finch is a lawyer representing Tom Robinson. Atticus presents the above statement to the jury, setting up an antithesis. He asserts that the case is not difficult and yet requires the jury to be absolutely sure of their decision. Atticus believes the case to have a very obvious conclusion, and hopes that the jury will agree with him, but he is also aware of the societal tensions at work that will complicate the case.

Test Your Knowledge of Antithesis

WITCHES: Fair is foul, and foul is fair: Hover through the fog and filthy air.

MACBETH: Is this a dagger which I see before me, The handle toward my hand?

WITCHES: Something wicked this way comes.

4. Which of the following quotes from Heller’s Catch-22 contains an example of antithesis? A. There are now fifty or sixty countries fighting in this war. Surely so many counties can’t all be worth dying for. B. He had decided to live forever or die in the attempt, and his only mission each time he went up was to come down alive. C. You’re inches away from death every time you go on a mission. How much older can you be at your age? [spoiler title=”Answer to Question #4″] Answer: B is the correct answer.[/spoiler]

How To Use Antithesis In A Sentence

Published May 5, 2021. Updated March 2, 2023.

This helpful guide will show you how to use antithesis in a sentence. It will show you the definition of antithesis , as well as synonyms, antonyms, and the type of connotation that the word can carry.

Worried about your writing? Submit your paper for a Chegg Writing grammar check , or for an Expert Check proofreading . Both can help you find and fix potential writing issues.

Usage for antithesis

Definition: the opposite of something

Part(s) of speech: noun

Antonyms: same; similar; alike

Synonyms: contrast; inverse; counter

Here are but a few sample sentences of the word in action!

• Peace is the very antithesis of war.
• Our leader’s behavior is the anthesis of the principles that our country was founded upon.
• When I see them mix, it certainly seems like oil is the antithesis of water.
• That movie was the antithesis of great art; what a piece of garbage.
• I truly believe grief is the antithesis of joy. I’m having trouble seeing how you can help me feel better when I’ve just gone through this loss.
• I love when horror movies have elements of comedy because usually one genre is the antithesis of the other.
• In order to pass this bill, we need compromise. You have to understand that Democrats are not wholly the antithesis of Republicans.
• I’ve been a cynic my entire life. How can you expect me to be optimistic at a time like this when it would be the antithesis of my whole personality.
• A high school debate usually involves one side making an argument on a subject and the other side making an argument that is the antithesis argument on the same subject.
• I think Jeremy is good for me right now. He’s the antithesis of my ex-boyfriend, so it’s just what I need.
• People who think comic books are the antithesis of literature clearly have not read enough well-written comic books.
• How can you keep all the presents you bought just for yourself? That kind of attitude is the antithesis of the spirit of Christmas.
• I think you’ll agree; it’s very obvious that fire is the antithesis of ice .
• Some might say television is the antithesis of high art, but they clearly haven’t watched enough HBO.
• Censorship from the government is the very antithesis of a free press; how can you not see that?

Visit these additional guides to see specific word usage in different example sentences.

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It was the best of literary devices ; it was the worst of literary devices.

Well, antithesis isn’t actually the worst. Antithesis means “opposite.” It is a powerful rhetorical device, but it can be difficult to understand and even harder to spot in writing.

Fear antithesis no more! Today we’re breaking down everything you need to know about this literary device, including what it is, how it’s used, and where you can find examples of it.

Antithesis Definition

Antithesis is a literary device, but it’s also a word used in contexts outside of literature. Before we understand how it’s used in literature and rhetoric, we need to understand its dictionary definition.

Merriam-Webster defines antithesis as “the direct opposite.” What does this mean in a real-life setting?

Let’s say you meet someone on a dating app who is the exact opposite of everything you want in a partner. You might say they are “the antithesis of who I thought I’d end up with.”

Antithesis comes from the Greek word antitithenai , which means “to oppose.” The root tithenai means “to set or put,” while anti originally meant “against.”

The meaning of antithesis as a literary term is more nuanced and specific, however. It’s more than a matter of two things that are exact opposites. Let’s take a look at what antithesis means in terms of literature and rhetoric.

Antithesis Definition in Literature and Poetry

As a literary device, antithesis is two contrasting ideas juxtaposed against each other using parallel sentence structure. We’ll talk more about what parallel structure is in a later section.

The contrasting ideas in antithesis do not need to be the exact opposite of one another, but they do need to be dissimilar enough to show opposition. Here’s an example from Shakespeare’s Hamlet to illustrate this idea.

“Give every man thine ear, but few thy voice.”

The exact opposite of “every” is not “few,” and the direct opposite of “ear” is not “voice,” but they contrast enough to be antithetical.

Antithesis Meaning

Antithesis has several purposes as a rhetorical device. Placing two contrasting concepts together helps the audience define and comprehend complex ideas.

The contrast, as well as the parallel structure, often creates a rhythmic statement that sticks in a reader’s mind. This helps draw emphasis to important ideas.

Let’s look at this figure of speech: “Go big or go home.”

“Big” and “home” aren’t direct opposites. But the antithesis helps us understand that the opposite of doing something big is just sitting at home. Plus, it’s a catchy phrase, so it sticks with us.

Antithesis and Parallel Structure

It’s impossible to fully understand antithesis without understanding parallel structure, which is sometimes called parallelism .

Parallel structure is the repetition of a grammatical structure in a phrase. It’s used with many different types of literary devices, such as anaphora and epistrophe.

Parallelism isn’t necessarily repeating words. Instead, you are repeating a structure. This might mean word forms, like infinitives or gerunds , or patterns of words.

Here’s a common proverb that illustrates the parallel structure of antithesis: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”

The parallelism is the pattern of “there’s a [blank].” The opposing ideas are “will” and “way.” One is something you desire, the other is how it happens. Together, this forms an example of antithesis.

Examples of Antithesis

You have probably encountered antithesis regularly without even knowing it! Many clichés , proverbs, and figures of speech are examples of antithesis.

Antithesis is a powerful tool in writing, but beware of overused examples. Clichés, like some of the examples below, can make your writing feel contrived and dull. Use ProWritingAid’s Clichés Report to find overdone antitheses.

Here are some everyday examples of antithesis.

• Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
• Like father, like son.
• Out of sight, out of mind.
• Easy come, easy go.
• Beggars can’t be choosers.

Antithesis isn’t just for proverbs and clichés, however. Many great writers and speakers use antithesis.

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Antithesis examples in literature.

Antithesis is often used in literature, and there are many excellent examples of it. Let’s look at a few of the most famous antithesis quotes from prose, plays, and poetry.

“Here at least/We shall be free; the Almighty hath not built /Here for his envy, will not drive us hence:/Here we may reign secure, and in my choice/To reign is worth ambition through in Hell:/Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heaven.”—John Milton, Paradise Lost

Milton uses several examples of parallelism in this quote, and the last line uses that repetitive structure to create antithesis.

Here’s another great example. How many examples of antitheses can you spot in this quote?

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Life, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way.”—Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities

The opening line of this novel has seven examples of antithesis!

Shakespeare’s most famous soliloquy also features antithesis.

“To be, or not to be, that is the question:/Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer/The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,/Or to take Arms against a Sea of troubles,/And by opposing end them.”—William Shakespeare, Hamlet

The opening line of this soliloquy is an example of antithesis. He also uses contrasting ideas in the next lines, where he pits suffering in fortune against fighting his suffering.

Antithesis Examples in History

Throughout history, many famous people have used antithesis. Let’s check out a few examples.

“The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.”—Abraham Lincoln, The Gettysburg Address, 1863

Lincoln uses two antithesis back to back in his speech after the Battle of Gettysburg. First, he contrasts the idea of “little note” with “long remember.” Then he contrasts “what we say” with “what they did.”

“We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.”—Martin Luther King, Jr., St. Louis, 1964

Dr. King also uses two examples of antithesis in this quote from his speech in St. Louis, Missouri. He contrasts living with perishing, and brothers with fools.

“Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.”—Muhammed Ali, 1964

The world-famous boxer Muhammed Ali used this antithesis to describe his fighting style. Floating like a butterfly and stinging like a bee are very different, yet it’s how he became a world champion!

Conclusion: Antithesis Is the Literary Term for Opposite

In short, antithesis is the idea of contrasting two opposing ideas, whether as words or phrases, with a parallel structure in writing. It’s a powerful literary device when done well, and can explain and emphasize complicated concepts in a lyrical way.

Common Questions about Antithesis

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What is Antithesis? Definition, Examples of Antitheses in Writing

Home » The Writer’s Dictionary » What is Antithesis? Definition, Examples of Antitheses in Writing

Antithesis definition: Antithesis is a literary and rhetorical device where two seemingly contrasting ideas are expressed through parallel structure.

What is Antithesis?

What does antithesis mean? An antithesis is just that—an “anti” “thesis.” An antithesis is used in writing to express ideas that seem contradictory.

An antithesis uses parallel structure of two ideas to communicate this contradiction.

Example of Antithesis:

• “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.” –Muhammad Ali

First, the structure is parallel. Each “side” of the phrase has the same number of words and the same structure. Each uses a verb followed by a simile.

Second, the contracting elements of a butterfly and a bee seem contradictory. That is, a butterfly is light and airy while a bee is sharp and stinging. One person (a boxer, in this case) should not be able to possess these two qualities—this is why this is an antithesis.

However, Ali is trying to express how a boxer must be light on his feet yet quick with his fist.

Modern Examples of Antithesis

• “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”

Through parallel structure, this quotation presents an antithesis. It seems contradictory that one action could be a “small step” and a “giant leap.”

However, this contradiction proposes that the action of landing on the moon might have just been a small physical step for the man Neil Armstrong, but it was a giant leap for the progress of mankind.

The Function of Antithesis

An antithesis stands out in writing. Because it uses parallel structure, an antithesis physically stands out when interspersed among other syntactical structures. Furthermore, an antithesis presents contrasting ideas that cause the reader or audience to pause and consider the meaning and purpose.

Oftentimes, the meaning of an antithesis is not overtly clear. That is, a reader or audience must evaluate the statement to navigate the meaning.

Writers utilize antitheses very sparingly. Since its purpose is to cause an audience to pause and consider the argument, it must be used with purpose and intent.

Antithesis Example from Literature

• “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity…”

From the beginning, Dickens presents two contradictory ideas in this antithesis.

How can it be the “best” and the “worst” of times? These two “times” should not be able to coexist.

Similarly, how can the setting of this novel also take place during an “age of wisdom” and an “age of foolishness?”

The antithesis continues.

Dickens opens his with these lines to set the tone for the rest of the novel. Clearly, there are two sides to this story, two tales of what is the truth. These two “sides” should not function peacefully. And, in fact, they do not. That, after all, is the “tale of two cities.”

Dickens sets up this disparity to set the tone for his novel, which will explore this topic.

Summary: What is an Antithesis?

Define antithesis: An antithesis consists of contrasting concepts presented in parallel structure.

Writers use antithesis to create emphasis to communicate an argument.

• Note: The plural form of antithesis is antitheses.

ANTITHESIS in a Sentence Examples: 21 Ways to Use Antithesis

Have you ever come across a sentence that seems to express the opposite idea of what you were expecting? This rhetorical device is known as “antithesis.” In literature and speech, antithesis is used to create a contrasting effect by placing two opposing ideas together in a sentence.

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7 Examples Of Antithesis Used In a Sentence For Kids

14 sentences with antithesis examples, how to use antithesis in sentences.

To use Antithesis in a sentence, first identify two contrasting ideas or concepts that you want to highlight in your statement. Antithesis is all about juxtaposing two opposite ideas to create a strong emphasis on the difference between them.

Once you have your two contrasting ideas, place them in a sentence in a way that clearly shows the contradiction between them. Remember that the aim of Antithesis is to create a powerful impact and make the reader think about the stark differences between the two ideas.

For example, you could write: “She was the light in his darkness, the warmth in his cold world.” In this sentence, the antithesis is showcased by contrasting the concepts of light and darkness, warmth and cold, to emphasize the stark differences between them.

Another example could be: “His speech was full of brilliance , but her silence spoke volumes.” Here, the antithesis lies in the contrast between speech and silence, brilliance and volumes, underscoring the power of silence over words.

Remember to use Antithesis sparingly and strategically in your writing to create a compelling effect. By juxtaposing two contradictory ideas in a sentence, you can draw attention to the stark differences between them and make your point more effectively.

In writing, sentences with antithesis serve to highlight contrasts and create a striking impact by juxtaposing opposing ideas. This rhetorical device adds depth and nuance to a piece of writing by emphasizing the differences between two concepts. By using sentences with antithesis, writers can draw attention to the contradictions or conflicts within their ideas, leading to a more engaging and thought-provoking narrative.

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What is Antithesis? Examples of Antithesis in Literature and Speech

Antithesis is a rhetorical device that has been used for centuries to create contrast and emphasize ideas in speech and writing. It involves placing two contrasting ideas side by side, often using parallel grammatical structures, to highlight their differences. This technique can be used for various purposes, such as to create emphasis, create balance, or to make a point.

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Definition of Antithesis

Antithesis is a literary device that involves contrasting two opposing ideas or concepts in a sentence or passage in order to create a dramatic or rhetorical effect. The word “antithesis” comes from the Greek word “antithenai,” which means “to oppose.”

Antithesis can be used in a variety of ways, including through contrasting words, phrases, or clauses. This technique is often used in poetry, prose, and speeches to create a sense of tension and to emphasize the differences between two ideas.

In antithesis, two contrasting ideas are placed side by side in order to highlight their differences. This technique is often used to create a sense of balance in a sentence or passage. For example, consider the following sentence: “To be or not to be, that is the question.” In this sentence, the opposing ideas of existence and non-existence are contrasted in order to create a sense of tension and to emphasize the importance of the decision at hand.

Examples of Antithesis

Antithesis is a literary device that involves the use of contrasting ideas, words, or phrases in a parallel structure. Here are some examples of antithesis in literature, speeches, and advertising.

Antithesis in Literature

Antithesis is commonly used in literature to highlight the contrast between two opposing ideas or themes. One of the most famous examples of antithesis in literature is found in Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities . The opening lines of the novel read:

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way – in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only.”

The contrasting ideas of “best” and “worst,” “wisdom” and “foolishness,” “belief” and “incredulity,” and others are used to emphasize the stark differences between the two cities.

Antithesis in Speeches

Antithesis is also commonly used in speeches to create a memorable impact on the audience. One of the most famous examples of antithesis in a speech is from Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech:

“We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.”

The contrasting ideas of “live together” and “perish together” are used to emphasize the importance of unity and brotherhood.

Antithesis in Advertising

Antithesis is also used in advertising to create memorable slogans and taglines. One example is the slogan for the car company BMW:

“The ultimate driving machine.”

The contrasting ideas of “ultimate” and “driving machine” are used to emphasize the high quality and performance of BMW cars.

In conclusion, antithesis is a powerful literary device that can be used in a variety of contexts to create memorable and impactful statements.

Antithesis vs. Juxtaposition

Antithesis and juxtaposition are two rhetorical devices that are often used in literature and speech. While they may seem similar, there are distinct differences between the two.

Antithesis is a rhetorical device that involves placing two contrasting ideas side by side in a sentence or phrase. The purpose of antithesis is to create a stark contrast between the two ideas, often to emphasize a point or to create a sense of tension or conflict.

For example, one famous example of antithesis comes from Charles Dickens’ “A Tale of Two Cities”: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” This sentence contrasts two opposing ideas, highlighting the extreme differences between them.

Antithesis is often used in speeches and persuasive writing to create a memorable and impactful statement. However, it can also be used in more subtle ways to add depth and complexity to a piece of writing.

Juxtaposition

Juxtaposition, on the other hand, involves placing two ideas or objects next to each other in order to highlight their differences or similarities. Unlike antithesis, the two ideas or objects may not necessarily be opposing or contrasting.

For example, a writer might use juxtaposition to describe two characters in a story. By placing their descriptions side by side, the writer can highlight their differences and create a more vivid picture of each character.

Juxtaposition can also be used to create irony or humor. By placing two unlikely ideas or objects next to each other, a writer can create a sense of surprise or amusement.

In conclusion, while antithesis and juxtaposition are both rhetorical devices that involve placing two ideas or objects next to each other, they serve different purposes. Antithesis is used to create a contrast or conflict between two opposing ideas, while juxtaposition is used to highlight the differences or similarities between two ideas or objects.

Antithesis in Communication

Antithesis is a powerful tool in communication that can be used to emphasize contrast, create memorable phrases, and strengthen arguments. By juxtaposing two opposing ideas, antithesis can help to clarify and highlight the differences between them, making them more easily understood and remembered. In this section, we will explore the importance of antithesis in communication and how it can be used effectively.

Emphasizing Contrast

One of the primary functions of antithesis is to emphasize contrast. By placing two opposing ideas side by side, antithesis can draw attention to their differences and make them more apparent. This can be especially useful in situations where it is important to distinguish between two similar but distinct concepts. For example, in political discourse, antithesis can be used to highlight the differences between two competing policy proposals or ideologies.

Creating Memorable Phrases

Another important function of antithesis is to create memorable phrases. By using contrasting ideas in a sentence or phrase, antithesis can create a sense of balance and rhythm that can make the words more memorable. This can be seen in famous quotes such as “To be or not to be” from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, which uses antithesis to create a memorable phrase that encapsulates the play’s central theme.

Strengthening Arguments

Finally, antithesis can be used to strengthen arguments. By using contrasting ideas, antithesis can help to make an argument more persuasive by highlighting the strengths of one idea while pointing out the weaknesses of another. This can be especially useful in situations where it is important to make a convincing case, such as in a legal argument or a political debate.

In conclusion, antithesis is an important tool in communication that can be used to emphasize contrast, create memorable phrases, and strengthen arguments. By using contrasting ideas, antithesis can help to clarify and highlight the differences between two concepts, making them more easily understood and remembered. Whether in literature, politics, or everyday conversation, antithesis can be a powerful tool for effective communication.

Overall, antithesis is a valuable tool for writers and speakers who want to create a sense of contrast and emphasize their point. When used effectively, it can make writing or speech more memorable and impactful. However, it is important to use it in moderation and not rely on it too heavily. By understanding how to use antithesis effectively, writers and speakers can take their communication skills to the next level.

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How to Use Antithesis in Your Writing (With Examples)

Antithesis is a rhetorical device that's often misunderstood, even by writing professionals. It may be tempting to avoid using it in your writing, but there are many reasons why you should give it another look, including the following 10 reasons to use antithesis figures of speech in your writing.

Antithesis: Why You Should Use It In Your Writing

Antithesis creates a clear contrast.

An antithesis figure of speech creates a clear contrast between two opposite ideas. The important thing to keep in mind is that both ideas need to be logically connected and make sense together.

One of the most common examples of an antithesis is the juxtaposition between life and death, where one would represent the world as we know it, while the other represents what follows it. Another example is that of light and darkness; they are both contrasting concepts, but they still connect in some way because they are opposites.

Antithesis highlights contradictions

Antithesis is the use of words that are opposite or contrasting in meaning. For example, to be or not to be. Antithesis is used in writing to create a dramatic effect.

Contrary to what you might think, an antithetical statement can enhance a passage instead of detracting from it. It helps to show two sides of an argument and bring balance to your writing.

Effective use of antithesis figures of speech will also bring out the nuances in your subject matter and make it easier for readers to understand your point. The classic example of this technique is found in Hamlet’s famous line to be or not to be; this juxtaposition highlights how we all have a choice about life and death.

Antithesis adds rhythm to your writing

When you're writing, it's easy to fall into a rhythm of saying the same thing over and over again. But by adding antithesis in your writing, you can add rhythm that'll make your text more interesting. Antithesis is when you say the opposite of what you just said, or contrast one idea with another.

An example of an antithesis figure of speech would be I'm not hungrily followed by I'm starving. The two sentences are contrasting ideas which will likely keep your reader engaged because they don't know what to expect next.

Here are some other antithesis figure of speech examples in common phrases: all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, the exception proves the rule, don't shoot the messenger. The use of antithesis has several benefits to your writing including keeping readers interested and reinforcing the meaning behind certain phrases. Adding this type of contrast in your writing can be very beneficial for making a point clear.

Antithesis makes your writing more memorable

It has been proven time and time again that people are more likely to remember something if it's in a form that contrasts with what they've already heard. You can use antithesis in your writing by presenting two opposing ideas or concepts and letting the reader decide which one they believe is right.

Consider these two sentences of antithesis figure of speech examples : We should have left hours ago and It's too late to leave now. The first sentence tells readers that they should have left long ago, while the second sentence tells them there is no point in leaving since it's too late. Antithesis can be used for all sorts of things, from metaphors to titles.

Antithesis can help you make a persuasive argument

An antithesis is a sentence, phrase, or word that contrasts with the previous one. For example, He was strong and brave versus He was weak. Antitheses are a great way to add power to your argument by making it more persuasive.

One common use of an antithesis is in the famous quote from John F Kennedy's inaugural address: Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country. The first part of this statement is a request for help, while the second part has a much more powerful tone of asking people to contribute their talents.

When we hear these words, we know that JFK wants us to get up off our couches and participate in life - whether as a citizen or volunteers. What better way to make an impact than through your writing?

A good rule of thumb is never to have two statements the same, which means finding some way of contrasting them (e.g., no quotes should be used twice). However, don't worry if this seems like too much work - just reading over what you've written will probably be enough to come up with some opposites.

Antithesis can be used to create a dramatic effect

An antithesis is a sentence, phrase, or clause that contrasts with another. One of the most common types of antitheses is those that compare two different things.

For antithesis figure of speech examples , some people who are too proud to say they're sorry could be compared to some people who are humble enough to say they're sorry. Antitheses can also be used as a way to show contrast like he was quick and agile as opposed to he was slow and clumsy. By using an antithesis in your writing you can create a dramatic effect, show contrast, or even make an argument.

Antithesis can help you clarify your ideas

When you use antithesis, you are creating an inherent contradiction that adds a certain level of complexity to your writing. This can be done by placing two words, phrases, or clauses next to one another that are opposites.

One antithesis figure of speech example of this is the phrase out with the old and in with the new. Antitheses can also be created by contrasting ideas, colors, nouns, pronouns, or verbs. The effect can help you clarify your thoughts and make your writing more interesting for readers. Examples include Jane walking down the street and Joe running down the street; blue is cold while red is warm; we want them to do it while they don't want us to tell them what to do.

Take these five sentences, I'm not angry anymore, said John after drinking some tea. I'm very calm, he added when he noticed her worried expression. That's good, she responded as she reached over and patted his hand. These sentences would read better if they were paired with their antithesis: I'm not angry anymore, said John after drinking some tea. I'm very mad! he added when he noticed her worried expression. That's bad, she responded as she reached over and slapped his hand.

Antithesis can make your writing more concise

An antithesis is a figure of speech that is used to create balance or contrast between two opposing ideas. The two opposite ideas are set next to each other to show their differences and similarities.

Antitheses can make your writing more concise by adding a second idea that clarifies the original one. They can also be used to build up the suspense because they make the reader want to know what the contrasting idea is.

Antitheses are most often used in dialogue and prose, but they can be used in poetry as well. One thing to keep in mind when using an antithesis is not to use it too often. As with any technique, overusing it will take away from its power and effectiveness.

A good antithesis figure of speech example of an effective use of an antithesis comes from Anne Frank's diary: How on earth have people come so far, yet learned so little?

Antithesis can add emphasis

Antithesis is a rhetorical technique in which two words, phrases, clauses, or sentences contrast in meaning. This is done to add emphasis to the point that is being made. For example, The world is round can be contrasted with The world is flat.

When using an antithesis in your writing you can bring out the point you're trying to make and give it more weight by contrasting it with another idea. Using antithesis can help add emphasis because when you use one word or phrase and then it's the opposite, this sets up a clear relationship between these two concepts.

Using antithesis can make your writing more interesting

One of the best ways to make your writing more interesting is to use antithesis. Antitheses are opposites that are put together in a sentence. They can be used as a rhetorical device or for emphasis. There are many types of antitheses, but we will focus on the most common one, which is called verbal antithesis.

Verbal antitheses can be defined as words and phrases placed in pairs to contrast their meanings and create an effect of balance and harmony between them. A famous example of this is from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet where he has these lines: What light through yonder window breaks?

Antithesis in Your Writing: Ways to Make Your Words Work Harder for You

Antithesis is the best tool you can use to make your writing work harder and get noticed. What exactly is antithesis? Here’s an example: Many people are afraid of heights, but I would love to stand on top of Mount Everest just so I could have bragging rights. In the above sentence, it’s clear that mountain top and bragging rights are opposites, so both are used as examples of antithesis in writing (the first one uses spatial opposites, and the second one uses verbal opposites). But what about this sentence?

1) Start with a strong thesis

Since you are reading this sentence, I'm going to assume that you have a basic understanding of what an antithesis is. Now let's break down the definition and explore some ways that we can use it as a rhetorical device.

Antitheses are used when two opposite ideas or statements are presented together, typically to make a point or strengthen an argument. When we use antithesis, the two contrasting parts of our sentence are balanced against each other, which is why it is often referred to as the figure of balance.

The word antithesis comes from the Greek language meaning opposite and has been used by many well-known writers throughout history including Shakespeare and Aristotle.

2) Introduce your topic

Antithesis is the juxtaposition of two contrasting or opposing words, phrases, clauses, or sentences within a sentence or phrase. Some examples of antithetical pairs include peace and war, strong and weak, and life and death. The use of this rhetorical device emphasizes one side of the pair while diminishing the other.

Antithesis is often used as a literary device in poetry, prose, and other forms of writing. It can also be used to emphasize an idea, which can lead to varying interpretations of the meaning. For example, consider these two sentences:

• No matter how hard you work, you'll never be good enough.
• However hard you work, you will never be good enough!

3) Introduce your antithesis

An antithesis is a figure of speech that juxtaposes two ideas or concepts. When it's done well, it can make your writing more powerful by adding an element of contrast, irony, or surprise. This post will provide you with examples of what an antithesis looks like and how you can implement it into your writing. Let's get started!

First, let's look at the following sentence: I love working at this job. It sounds great on its face. However, consider the following sentence where the same idea is given as an antithesis: I hate working at this job. Now it's a little less pleasant and could use some context as to why this person feels so strongly about their current job.

What if I told you that they had been harassed? What if they work long hours for very low pay? That would give you additional information about why someone might hate their current job but still want to do it out of necessity.

4) Develop your ideas

The word antithesis comes from the Greek words anti, meaning against or opposite of, and thesis, meaning position, proposition, or opinion.

Antithesis means a juxtaposition of two opposing thoughts. It's a rhetorical device that uses contrast to create emphasis. Antithesis is like a yin-yang symbol, with each side balancing out the other side.

Antithesis can be used as either a synonym or antonym. For example, if you want to emphasize one quality over another, you might use antithesis by pairing it with its opposite; such as dark and light. This type of antithetical contrast is called chiastic antithesis.

5) Use concrete examples

• Create a stark contrast
• Create emphasis
• Clarify thoughts
• Show the duality of a situation
• Increase dramatic tension
• Emphasize an idea or emotion by juxtaposing it with its opposite

6) Be clear and concise

An antithesis is a contrasting idea that creates a balance within a sentence. It can be used effectively when there are two opposing ideas, but the contrasting idea is not simply the opposite of the original idea. Antitheses can also be used as one of many other rhetorical devices, such as anaphora or personification. Here are some examples of antithesis at work:

The father was generous with his time and money. The father was stingy with his time and money. She loved her job. She hated her job. They were sitting on their hands. They were dancing their fingers off. Here's what I have found, he said, shoving all of his papers in front of me. Take your pick! There's something for every type of student here!

My hand shoots out instinctively, grabbing my assignment from him. He offers no resistance, though it must be clear from my expression that I don't want this paper. There is nothing on it but meaningless scribbles. No instructions, no questions, and nothing at all to help me understand what it is supposed to do for me.

I glance up through narrowed eyes and see him watching me carefully—as if waiting for something—but I am too angry now to figure out what it might be. So I drop the assignment back onto the table and stalk away without another word.

7) Use simple language

What is Antithesis? The definition of Antithesis is the direct opposite or contrast. What does this mean? This means that you are using two different ideas, words, phrases, etc. together to create a more powerful meaning.

How do you use Antithesis? Here are some examples of Antithesis that you can use in your writing. In these sentences, we have put an example sentence with antithesis first and then followed it with another sentence without antithesis. He was alone but not lonely. He was lonely but not alone. He felt hopeless yet confident. He felt confident yet hopeless.

8 )Avoid clichés

A cliché is a phrase that is so overused and tired that it has lost its meaning. Here are some examples of clichés and how you can avoid them: Just do it. Instead say, Don't just sit around waiting. - You're never too old to learn. Instead say, Age is just a number. - He's a diamond in the rough. Say, I see potential here. Or He has a lot of untapped talent. Think about using contrast: Contrast means comparing two things or ideas side-by-side to emphasize their differences. If someone is poor, for example, then he might be very rich somewhere else. If he loves his job one day but hates it the next day, the contrast will highlight the changes in his emotions. Example sentences:

• Poverty exists in every corner of our country.
• It's hard when you're rich one day but poor another day.

9) Edit and proofread your work

There are many ways you can use antithesis to spice up your writing. The most common is contrasting two different words or phrases, but there are also plenty of other ways that you can use this literary device. Below, you'll find a list of a few examples and some tips on how to use them.

Contrasting two words or phrases using opposites, such as up-down or black-white. This is probably the most common way people use antithetical language and it's easy to see why; the contrast makes readers pause and thinks about what was said before continuing with the sentence. A quick example would be The green trees swaying in the wind.

One could quickly assume that this is because they're blowing in the wind, but if we add a little more information by saying The green trees swayed gently back and forth, then we know that they're not just swaying due to strong winds.

A good rule of thumb when choosing which words or phrases to use when doing this type of comparison is to pick ones that have opposite meanings from each other. If you want to say something like I love cake while still contrasting two things, then say I love cake more than I love bread. It doesn't always need to be an opposing word though;

10) Follow the rules of grammar

An antithesis is a rhetorical device that presents two contrasting ideas, usually through the use of parallelism. It has been used extensively throughout literary history and can be found in many different forms of writing. Antitheses are typically introduced with a coordinating conjunction such as but, yet, or however. They also often contain one or more correlating conjunctions such as although or nevertheless.

In this sentence, the antithesis is introduced with the conjunctions but and yet: Yet we should not forget his contributions.

In this sentence, the antithesis is introduced with the conjunctions however and nevertheless: However difficult it may seem, you will have to carry on.

Antithesis means the placing of contrasting ideas together, especially as a rhetorical device. If you're not quite sure what it means or how to use it, don't worry! That's what this article is for! By the time you're finished reading, you'll know all about antithesis in your writing and have even learned some cool ways to incorporate it into your style.

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How do you use antithesis in writing?

Incorporating antithesis into your writing will make it more powerful. Antithesis is the act of juxtaposing two opposite or contrasting words, phrases, clauses, or sentences within a sentence. This technique creates emphasis on the meaning and can be used to show irony or emphasize a point.

What are antithesis and its examples?

When you're writing, it's important to use antithesis or the act of putting two opposing ideas together.

This can be done through contrast in words, phrases, clauses, and sentences. It can also be done through an oppositional sentence structure. Here are some examples of antithesis that make your writing more powerful and engaging!

What is an antithesis in writing?

An antithesis is a sentence that contrasts an idea with its opposite. It's usually used as the second half of a sentence. When you use antitheses, you can make your words work harder and make your writing more interesting. Here are some examples of how you might use an antithesis in your writing:

• I've never been more lost than when I found myself on the road less traveled.
• A man who was once very wise now lives as if he knows nothing at all.

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Antithesis is a literary device that pairs contrasting ideas together in a sentence to highlight their differences. This technique emphasizes the distinction between the ideas, making their unique characteristics more noticeable and impactful. By using antithesis, writers can draw attention to specific traits and enhance the clarity of their message.

What is an Antithesis?

Types of antithesis, conceptual antithesis.

Conceptual antithesis involves contrasting abstract ideas or theories, such as “freedom vs. slavery” or “truth vs. lies,” to emphasize ideological differences.

Structural Antithesis

This type uses parallel grammatical structures to emphasize the contrast between two opposing words or clauses, enhancing the rhythm and balance of the sentence.

Verbal Antithesis

Verbal antithesis contrasts specific words within a statement, like “best of times, worst of times,” focusing on the immediate linguistic juxtaposition.

Figurative Antithesis

Figurative antithesis employs metaphors or similes to contrast two unlike but related concepts, deepening the poetic quality and imagery of the text.

100+ Antithesis Examples

Antithesis examples illustrate how contrasting ideas can be juxtaposed to create a striking effect in language. This literary device is used by writers to emphasize differences by placing opposing concepts in close proximity within their sentences. The result is a clearer and more powerful expression of each idea.

• “Give every man thy ear, but few thy voice.”
• “Many are called, but few are chosen.”
• “You are easy on the eyes, but hard on the heart.”
• “Patience is bitter, but it has a sweet fruit.”
• “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.”
• “Money is the root of all evils: poverty is the fruit of all goodness.”
• “Love is an ideal thing, marriage a real thing.”
• “Speech is silver, silence is golden.”
• “It’s not the men in my life, but the life in my men.”
• “Man proposes, God disposes.”
• “They promised freedom but provided slavery.”
• “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.”
• “Let’s agree to disagree.”
• “He was too honest to be a politician and too political to be honest.”
• “She’s the sunshine of my life, but sometimes it rains.”
• “That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.”
• “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but you can learn a lot from them.”
• “War is peace. Freedom is slavery. Ignorance is strength.”
• “It’s not about what it is, it’s about what it can become.”
• “I am a dreamer but not the only one.”
• “We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging principles.”
• “I know one thing; that I know nothing.”
• “The world is a comedy to those that think; a tragedy to those that feel.”
• “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.”
• “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”
• “There is no saint without a past, no sinner without a future.”
• “Fair is foul, and foul is fair.”
• “The more you know, the more you realize you know nothing.”
• “To err is human; to forgive, divine.”
• “She’s as happy as she is sad.”
• “You have to be cruel to be kind.”
• “Better late than never, but never late is better.”
• “The child is the father of the man.”
• “History is written by the victors but read by the survivors.”
• “To lead the people, walk behind them.”
• “He who does not understand your silence will probably not understand your words.”
• “The pen is mightier than the sword.”
• “Actions speak louder than words, but words are often easier.”
• “What we achieve inwardly will change outer reality.”
• “We shape our buildings; thereafter, they shape us.”
• “Prejudice is the reason of fools.”
• “The purpose of life is a life of purpose.”
• “Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes.”
• “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
• “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”
• “A joke is a very serious thing.”
• “Wisdom is knowing what to do next; virtue is doing it.”
• “The first casualty when war comes is truth.”
• “An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.”
• “A man who wants to lead the orchestra must turn his back on the crowd.”
• “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.”
• “Not all those who wander are lost.”
• “The darkest places in hell are reserved for those who maintain their neutrality in times of moral crisis.”
• “If you want to make an omelette, you must be willing to break a few eggs.”
• “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.”
• “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”
• “Every beginning has an end and every end is a new beginning.”
• “It’s better to be hated for what you are than to be loved for what you are not.”
• “He who laughs last laughs best.”
• “Truth is stranger than fiction.”
• “I can resist everything except temptation.”
• “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”
• “United we stand, divided we fall.”
• “The course of true love never did run smooth.”
• “He who fears being conquered is sure of defeat.”
• “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
• “Youth is wasted on the young.”
• “I must be cruel only to be kind.”
• “Good fences make good neighbors.”
• “He who would learn to fly one day must first learn to stand and walk and run and climb and dance; one cannot fly into flying.”
• “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”
• “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”
• “It is always the best policy to speak the truth, unless, of course, you are an exceptionally good liar.”
• “Every exit is an entry somewhere else.”
• “The only source of knowledge is experience.”
• “There is nothing permanent except change.”
• “The only way to have a friend is to be one.”
• “One must be poor to know the luxury of giving.”
• “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
• “The only thing more expensive than education is ignorance.”
• “To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.”
• “Everything has its beauty, but not everyone sees it.”
• “If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.”
• “Sometimes you have to be silent to be heard.”
• “Change is the law of life and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.”
• “The heart has its reasons of which reason knows nothing.”
• “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”
• “He who knows others is wise; he who knows himself is enlightened.”
• “Hope is the dream of a waking man.”
• “A room without books is like a body without a soul.”
• “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.”
• “A person often meets his destiny on the road he took to avoid it.”
• “The best way out is always through.”
• “In theory, there is no difference between theory and practice. But, in practice, there is.”
• “You can do anything, but not everything.”
• “Silence is argument carried out by other means.”
• “Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.”
• “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”
• “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
• “Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none.”
• “Happiness is not an ideal of reason, but of imagination.”

Famous Antithesis Examples

Antithesis can be found across classic and modern texts, bringing vivid contrast and memorable clarity to writing. Famous works often use this literary device to draw stark differences between ideas, increasing the impact of their messages.

Antithesis Examples in the Bible

The Bible frequently uses antithesis to emphasize moral contrasts and spiritual dilemmas:

• “For you are all children of light, children of the day; we are not of the night or of the darkness.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:5
• “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” — Matthew 23:12

Antithesis Examples in Letter from Birmingham Jail

Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail” uses antithesis to highlight the differences between just and unjust laws, as well as the moral gap between actions and inactions:

• “We know through painful experience that freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.”

Antithesis Examples in I Have a Dream Speech

In his iconic speech, Martin Luther King Jr. used antithesis to emphasize the disparity between the American dream and the American reality:

• “One hundred years later, the Negro is still languished in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land.”
• “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”

Antithesis Examples For Kids

Antithesis can also be simplified for children to help them understand opposites in a memorable way:

• “The hero was brave, the villain was cowardly.”
• “She was as quiet as a mouse, he was as loud as a lion.”

How to Use Antithesis

Identify opposing concepts.

Start by identifying two ideas that contrast sharply with each other. These could be qualities, actions, philosophies, or characters.

Create Parallel Structures

Structure your sentence in a way that parallels the opposing ideas. This symmetry helps to highlight the contrast and makes the sentence easier to follow.

Choose Concise Language

Use clear and concise language to express each idea. The sharper the wording, the more effective the antithesis.

Place for Emphasis

Use antithesis in parts of your writing where you want to create a strong, memorable impact, such as in conclusions, thesis statements, or key arguments.

Balance the Sentence

Ensure that both halves of the antithesis are balanced in terms of length and syntactic structure to maintain a rhythmic flow and enhance readability.

Tips for Using Antithesis

• Understand Your Ideas Fully : Before creating an antithesis, make sure you fully understand the ideas or themes you want to contrast. Clear understanding allows for sharper distinctions.
• Use Parallel Structure : Employ parallelism in your sentences when using antithesis. This means keeping the grammatical structures of the contrasting parts similar, which not only emphasizes the contrast but also makes your sentence more rhythmic and easier to understand.
• Keep It Balanced : Ensure that the contrasting elements in the antithesis are balanced in terms of length and syntactic complexity. A balanced structure increases the impact of the contrast.
• Select Appropriate Context : Use antithesis in contexts where highlighting a contrast can strengthen your argument or enhance the poetic quality of your writing. It’s particularly effective in speeches, persuasive essays, and poetry.
• Focus on Clarity : While it’s tempting to use elaborate language, clarity should always be your priority. Choose words that make the contrasting ideas clear and accessible, especially if your audience is broad or diverse.
• Practice Moderation : Although antithesis can be very effective, using it too frequently in a piece of writing can become overwhelming or reduce its impact. Use it sparingly to ensure that each instance stands out and serves a specific purpose.
• Revise for Impact : After writing a sentence with antithesis, revise it to see if the contrast could be stronger or the wording more precise. Editing allows you to refine the structure and wording for maximum impact.

How to pronounce antithesis?

Antithesis is pronounced as an- TITH -eh-sis.

What is a synonym for the word antithesis?

A synonym for antithesis is opposition .

What is an example of an antithesis in a movie?

In “The Dark Knight,” Batman and Joker represent antithesis: order versus chaos.

What is the purpose of using antithesis?

The purpose of using antithesis is to make the differences between two opposing ideas more vivid, enhancing the effectiveness of the message or argument.

Can antithesis be used in everyday conversation?

Yes, antithesis can be used in everyday conversation to emphasize a point or clarify the distinction between two contrasting ideas.

What are common examples of antithesis?

Common examples include phrases like “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” or “Speech is silver, but silence is golden.”

How does antithesis affect the reader?

Antithesis captures the reader’s attention by creating a stark contrast, making the text more memorable and persuasive.

Is antithesis only used in literature?

No, antithesis is used in various forms of writing and speech, including literature, speeches, advertising, and everyday dialogue.

How can antithesis enhance persuasive writing?

Antithesis sharpens the contrasts in persuasive writing, making arguments clearer and more compelling by highlighting the stakes and choices.

What should be avoided when using antithesis?

Avoid overusing antithesis or forcing unnatural contrasts, as this can make writing seem contrived or unclear. Keep the contrasts relevant and impactful.

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Antithesis in a Sentence  🔊

Definition of Antithesis

the total opposite of an object or person

Examples of Antithesis in a sentence

In the movie, Robert’s character of an abusive husband is the antithesis of the caring spouse the actor really is.  🔊

Although the hotel describes itself as a five-star resort, in reality its decrepit building is the antithesis of a fine hotel.  🔊

The heroine’s death was the antithesis of what I thought would happen at the end of the novel.  🔊

During his sermon, the minister asked his clergy members to practice the antithesis of hate and love even their worst enemies.  🔊

A country run by a dictator is the antithesis of a nation guided by an elected leader.  🔊

Because Bill is an honest man, he is the antithesis of all the crooked men who held the political office before him.  🔊

A violent criminal is the antithesis of a well-behaved adult.  🔊

In writing, an antithesis is a device used to show contrast between two unlike objects or individuals.  🔊

It goes without saying that freedom is the antithesis of captivity.  🔊

In the fairytale, the sweet caring girl is the antithesis of her two evil stepsisters.  🔊

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What's the opposite of Meaning of the word Words that rhyme with Sentences with the word Translate to Find Words Use * for blank tiles (max 2) Use * for blank spaces Find the of Pronounce the word in Find Names     Appearance ✓ Use device theme   ✓ Dark theme ✓ Light theme in a sentence ? Here are some examples. of current Coalition values. These dudes seem the of the greed-is-good ethic which made Wall Street's Gordon Gekko the antichrist of 1980s' conspicuous wealth. Since stagnation is the of growth, it is also the of life. Yet Edward always saw reconciliation in the form of its or opposite. The Edmonton Oilers dynasty of the 1980s was the direct of the Flyers. Fixed identities rooted in the past represent the of historical thinking. That is the converse of and the of the circumstances which exist here. For the past 10 years it has been an of what is visualised in the education clause of the Freedom Charter. If the major parties manage to get their heads round the concepts, we could see the exact of The Big Conversation. But simply put, he is a huckster, the of the anti-politician, and someone with limited green credentials, to say the least. So that modern monopoly is not a simple , it is on the contrary the true synthesis. Now, your Honours, the between the two approaches can be seen very clearly from a comparison of three short passages in the judgments. The creates balance but also invites the reader to weigh the scales. This of two different worlds truly serves as a classification of groups, i.e., insiders and outsiders. For these reasons I would like to begin by discussing the between Eve and the church. The two halves of the work therefore corresponded to his between faith and understanding. This opposition provides the most convincing rationale for his famous between bureaucracy and charisma. Often the synthesis, though adequately reconciling the previous thesis and , will turn out to be one-sided in some other respect. Then, by weighing arguments and applying rules of logic, the thesis and are united into a synthesis. Even though the two loadmasters could be mistaken for brothers, he's the of Sergeant Johnson. In Tolkien's world, evil is the of creativity, and is dependent on destruction and ruin for its basis. With his cane, his downcast eyes, and bandy legged gait, he is the of Hollywood muscle-bound steroid cases. The synthesis is a previously unrecognized direction that contains elements of both the thesis and . Hegel never used the words 'thesis, , synthesis', as we all know. The dictionary as a mode of literature is the of automatic writing, that disembodied burbling of the unconscious. The of tyranny is justice and moderation and that of ignorance, knowledge and understanding. Sargent is portrayed as modest, self-denying and unambitious, the of the preening Oxford peacocks. It is the opposite or negation of the first stage, and hence is known as the . In temperament, too, neoconservatives have revealed themselves as the of conservative. Technological progress proved to be incompatible not with socialism, but with Stalinism, its bureaucratic . Every synthesis becomes a new thesis, which becomes the target of a new . Faith is the very of reason, injudiciousness a crucial component of spiritual devotion. Their lustrous lacquer finishes and intricate inlays, undeniably ornamental, were the of machine production. Its dark brooding tone matching the introspective loneliness of its hero makes it the of its 1944 predecessor. Despite what you may have heard, dandyism is the of foppishness. Lysenko's bizarre Lamarckian biology was the of Darwinian evolution! The play, after all, is the very of the romantic drama its enigmatic title might suggest. He gets a job working for IBM, the acme of corporate, conformist paternalism, the of bohemianism. It is the of the still-prevailing Greek worldview which adulates logic and the laws of nature as absolute. Here I was in this tiny ramshackle village, St Paul's, the complete of the metropolis. Dapper of dress and genial of manner, Corbett seems the of the tortured comic suffering endless agonies for his art. This suggestion is objectionable to airmen and is the of US Air Force aerospace-power doctrine. Both symbolized values that were the of Soviet Marxism and Americanized consumerism. An analysis of this speech reveals that the student used varied repetition strategies, including anaphora, , chiasmus, and parallelism. The new forms out of elements of the original contradiction that didn't make it into the synthesis. He would be able to label these devices as antimetabole, polyptoton, epistrophe, , epanalepsis, anaphora, polysyndeton, anastrophe, etc. As a matter of fact no exists between deduction and induction. He was the of the archetypal young black man, particularly as those seen though pre-1994 racist eyes as being illiterate, arrogant, uncouth and untutored. The threat of intimidation and violence to those exercising this right is the of how a law-abiding and civilized nation conducts itself. The resolution of the Duchess's feud with the Binney family underscores the character's position as the apparent of true black womanhood. Politically conservative and devoutly religious, my parents are the to Cyrus in every way. Though they have nothing they contrive, somehow, to keep their self respect, the very of the dependency culture which has grown up in our own country. The necessary of the clean, facsimile page is therefore the riotous variorum page where perhaps only a single line of primary text remains. Tansini's approach is the of Parry's, replacing measured inexorability with a sequence of flurried, furtive conversations that hurtle into the stuff of nightmare. So any attempt to ignore the truth or deliberately not look in the direction where it obviously resides is the of what intelligence is about. It's also the of a well-tailored suit, where you're looking for symmetry, flowing lines, and the ability to draw your attention to the face. Again, one could infer that it is the direct to works. Contention leads to war, and war is the of civil peace. That is the of what private equity is set up to do. This was the of centralized bureaucratic feudalism in China. I fail to see any between deconstruction and construction. Desert warfare was, by definition, mobile warfare, the of the lethal attrition in the mire of the Western Front. Married at First Sight is the of The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. When I discovered what they were plotting, I made plain, concisely and profanely, that this gesture struck me as the of doing the right thing. It is a conservative viewpoint in the true sense, which makes it the of contemporary neoconservatism and neoliberalism, as well as all universalist ideologies. Burke asserted that those ideas were the of both the British and the American constitutions. The of incrementalism is that work must be accomplished in one single push rather than through a process of continuous improvement. He is the of a technocratic, machine politician of the kind many people now have an aversion to. His view ends up being the of psychologism, and is broadly anti-physicalist. I take it as obvious that an between spirituality and carnality is very much a part of the Great Religions of the West. Day dreaming and fantasies which are flights into the paracosmos, are an of creativity which is the most intense land of action. The concept of free trade was an to the will and economic direction of the sovereigns of the ancient Greek states. To me this is the of what travel should be about. This title may seem contradictory at first glance, for globalization could be viewed as quite the of traditionality. The fallacies and figures sections include basic examples of each including , anaphora, praeteritio, and prolepsis to name a few. Now Joffrey, the Starks' black-hearted , has met a similar fate. Although usually regarded as the of Garrick, Kemble nevertheless refined aspects of Garrick's portrayal into his own. Incrementalism is the of intrusive central planning, which can create rigid work systems unable to deal with the actual problems faced at the grassroots level. The hallmark of Petrarchan-geminated adjectives, , polysyndeton, and amplificatio can be found both in Leopardi's Canti and in the Canzoniere. I am in no wise anxious to weaken the between natural and revealed religion. Science may help the former, but it has absolutely nothing to do with the latter. The fashionable 'cyber-baroque' of NOX and Oosterhuis' computer-generated forms is the of the Netherlands' ordered, gridded polder landscape. Here the pompous is evidently meant to caricature the peculiar euphuistic sentence of court parlance. Thesis, and synthesis, a Fichtean formula, is generalized by Hegel into the perpetual law of thought. Both the conflicts between father and son, within the hilding family, are pendants and each other's . He was only misled by his love of into a hasty and illogical remark. In the Kulturkampf his position was the exact to that of Bismarck. The belletristic and the puritanical conceptions of life presented themselves in their profoundest . The very word cantabile emphasizes, by , the unvocal character of the old florid style. Both thesis and may be true, the latter of the world of sense and the former of its non-empirical ground. This difference is wrongly set forth if the to voluntarism is called intellectualism. He was regarded by the people as a white witch, whilst the witch of Fraddam was a black witch and his . That seems to arise out of the to the former conception of love. But the number of thinkers whom this does not satisfy grows daily. There are forms of in which the contrast is only of a secondary kind. Such is the relation of the terms of a syllogism in regard to reciprocation and . The would be better expressed in many cases, by the words objective and mental, or objective and cogitative. It is an against which conformist dialecticians have always turned their sharpest weapons. Bolshevism is not only the of Capitalism but its mortal enemy. If one part of the is a negation, what is the Inflection? Note the in the same line, antre de rois, Louvre de voleurs. Few men exhibit greater diversity, or, if we may so express it, greater of character, than the native warrior of North America. But we must hasten to add that his voice produced what might be called an to his blond delicacy. Lord John Roxton has some points in common with Professor Summerlee, and others in which they are the very to each other. With euphuism, and the use of balanced sentences came to stay. His thoughts were not confined within the Judaic . True Faith consists in monotheism, which is the of polytheism. He used , periphrasis, and climax with great skill. It was in some hundreds of verses, which I did my best to balance as Pope did, with a caesura falling in the middle of the line, and a neat at the end. Use * for blank tiles (max 2) Use * for blank spaces bottom_desktop desktop:[300x250] go Word Tools Finders & Helpers Apps More Synonyms Copyright WordHippo © 2024 Help Center Sentences with Antithesis 29 examples of antithesis in a sentence - how to use it in a sentence. Alternatively 475 IMAGES How To Use "Antithesis" In A Sentence: Optimal Application Antithesis Definition & Examples in Speech and Literature • 7ESL Antithesis Definition & Examples in Speech and Literature • 7ESL Antithesis Antithesis: Meaning, Definition and Examples 20+ Anti Thesis Examples VIDEO Antithesis meaning in hindi #antithesis The start // antithesis Infection How to Write Powerful Assertions with Antithesis in Your Code Antithesis Antithesis meaning and usage #shortsviral #shorts #learnenglish #basicenglishvocabulary How to pronounce Antithesis COMMENTS Examples of "Antithesis" in a Sentence Learn how to use "antithesis" in a sentence with 126 example sentences on YourDictionary. How to Use antithesis in a Sentence 'Antithesis' in a sentence: Its zippy chill is the converse of the toddy's tranquil warmth; its crisp, zingy gin base is the antitheses of the soothing, embracing whiskey. What Is Antithesis, and How Do You Use It in Writing? Learn the definition of antithesis, when it's used and how to use it in writing, with examples of antithesis in literature, poetry, and more. Antithesis Antithesis is a rhetorical device in which two opposite ideas are put together in a sentence to achieve a contrasting effect. ANTITHESIS in a sentence Examples of ANTITHESIS in a sentence, how to use it. 99 examples: In the world today we face two great economic antitheses. - Economic… Antithesis Antithesis is a figure of speech that juxtaposes two contrasting or opposing ideas, usually within parallel grammatical structures. For instance, Neil Armstrong used antithesis when he stepped onto the surface of the moon in 1969 and said, "That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind." This is an example of antithesis because ... How To Use Antithesis In A Sentence This helpful guide will show you how to use antithesis in a sentence. It will show you the definition of antithesis, as well as synonyms, antonyms, and the type of connotation that the word can carry. Usage for antithesis Definition: the opposite of something Part (s) of speech: noun Antithesis Definition & Meaning The meaning of ANTITHESIS is the direct opposite. How to use antithesis in a sentence. Did you know? Antithesis: Definition and Examples Clear definition and great examples of Antithesis. This article will show you the importance of Antithesis and how to use it. Antithesis literally means opposite - it is usually the opposite of a statement, concept, or idea. Antithesis Examples and Definition Antithesis is the use of contrasting concepts, words, or sentences within parallel grammatical structures. This combination of a balanced structure with opposite ideas serves to highlight the contrast between them. For example, the following famous Muhammad Ali quote is an example of antithesis: "Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.". How to Use Antithesis in Your Writing: Definition and Examples of The English language is full of literary devices that can enliven your writing. One tool used often in literature and politics is called antithesis. How To Use Antithesis In A Sentence Become confident using the word antithesis by reviewing the definition, synonyms and antonyms, and example sentences in this guide. Antithesis Conclusion: Antithesis Is the Literary Term for Opposite. In short, antithesis is the idea of contrasting two opposing ideas, whether as words or phrases, with a parallel structure in writing. It's a powerful literary device when done well, and can explain and emphasize complicated concepts in a lyrical way. What is Antithesis? Definition, Examples of Antitheses in Writing Define Antithesis: Learn the definition of antithesis as a literary unit with example sentences & worksheets. What is an antithesis? Find out here. ANTITHESIS in a Sentence Examples: 21 Ways to Use Antithesis Have you ever come across a sentence that seems to express the opposite idea of what you were expecting? This rhetorical device is known as "antithesis." In literature and speech, antithesis is used to create a contrasting effect by placing two opposing ideas together in a sentence. By juxtaposing contrasting words, phrases, or ideas, antithesis… Read More »ANTITHESIS in a Sentence ... What is Antithesis? Examples of Antithesis in Literature and Speech Antithesis is a literary device that involves the use of contrasting ideas, words, or phrases in a parallel structure. Here are some examples of antithesis in literature, speeches, and advertising. Antithesis is commonly used in literature to highlight the contrast between two opposing ideas or themes. How to Use Antithesis in Your Writing How do you use antithesis in writing? Incorporating antithesis into your writing will make it more powerful. Antithesis is the act of juxtaposing two opposite or contrasting words, phrases, clauses, or sentences within a sentence. This technique creates emphasis on the meaning and can be used to show irony or emphasize a point. Antithesis Antithesis Antithesis is a literary device that pairs contrasting ideas together in a sentence to highlight their differences. This technique emphasizes the distinction between the ideas, making their unique characteristics more noticeable and impactful. By using antithesis, writers can draw attention to specific traits and enhance the clarity of their message. What is an Antithesis? Antithesis in a Sentence Example sentences containing antithesis from English sources. Just like anything that's rewarding or joyful, it can't exist without its antithesis. In some ways, closed app ecosystems are the antithesis of dominant developer trends. In many ways, aridity is the antithesis of adornment. Antithesis in a Sentence Definition of Antithesis. the total opposite of an object or person. Examples of Antithesis in a sentence. In the movie, Robert's character of an abusive husband is the antithesis of the caring spouse the actor really is. Although the hotel describes itself as a five-star resort, in reality its decrepit building is the antithesis of a fine ... How to use antithesis in a sentence Here the pompous antithesis is evidently meant to caricature the peculiar euphuistic sentence of court parlance. Thesis, antithesis and synthesis, a Fichtean formula, is generalized by Hegel into the perpetual law of thought. Both the conflicts between father and son, within the hilding family, are pendants and each other's antithesis. He was only misled by his love of antithesis into a hasty ... How to Use Antithesis How to Use Antithesis Because antithesis is such a complex rhetorical device, and so intimately tied to the meaning of specific sentences, it's best not to set out with a plan of using it, especially in research papers or more technical writing. Instead, simply let the antitheses appear where they naturally do. Since they emphasize a particular point or conclusion, they can be used in ... Example sentences with Antithesis How to use Antithesis in a sentence? Review 29 sentence examples with Antithesis to better understand the usage of Antithesis in context. essay homework paper phd project resume review speech thesis