antagonism

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a state of deep-seated ill-will
  2. noun the relation between opposing principles or forces or factors
  3. noun an actively expressed feeling of dislike and hostility

Etymology

From Ancient Greek ἀνταγωνιστής (antagōnistḗs, “opponent”), from ἀνταγωνίζομαι (antagōnízomai, “antagonize”), from ἀγών (agṓn, “contest”) (English agon).

In classic literature

Synonyms

hostility, enmity

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