antagonism
What does "antagonism" mean?
Antagonism refers to an active, intense feeling of dislike, opposition, or hostility toward someone or something. It often implies a state of active resistance or a clash of opposing forces, where the individuals or groups involved are fundamentally at odds with one another. This word is generally used in formal or academic contexts to describe social, political, or interpersonal conflicts. While "dislike" is a passive feeling, "antagonism" implies a more dynamic, potentially confrontational energy that keeps the parties in a state of friction.
"antagonism" in conversation
Discussing a workplace conflict
Why is there so much antagonism between the design and sales teams?
Why is there so much antagonism between the design and sales teams?
It stems from the project deadline clash last month.
It stems from the project deadline clash last month.
Used to describe a persistent, structural conflict between two groups.
Analyzing a movie plot
The protagonist's antagonism toward the king is justified by his backstory.
The protagonist's antagonism toward the king is justified by his backstory.
True, it’s not just petty hatred; it’s a deep ideological divide.
True, it’s not just petty hatred; it’s a deep ideological divide.
Highlights that the feeling is rooted in a specific cause or belief.
"antagonism" in a sentence
The two neighbors felt a sense of antagonism toward each other.
The two neighbors felt a sense of antagonism toward each other.
Public antagonism toward the new tax policy forced the government to reconsider.
Public antagonism toward the new tax policy forced the government to reconsider.
The historical antagonism between the two nations has hindered diplomatic progress for decades.
The historical antagonism between the two nations has hindered diplomatic progress for decades.
