Antithesis Definition

Figure of speech where contrasting words or ideas are placed in close proximity e.g. 'Hee for God only, shee for God in him' from Milton's Paradise Lost.

Antithesis Poem Example

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[n] the juxtaposition of contrasting words or ideas to give a feeling of balance
[n] exact opposite; "his theory is the antithesis of mine"

See Also...

oppositeness, opposition, rhetorical device

Related Terms

antagonism, anteposition, antipathy, antipode, antipodes, antipole, antonym, clashing, collision, con, conflict, confrontation, confrontment, contention, contra, contradiction, contradictory, contradistinction, contraindication, contraposition, contrariet

Misc. Definitions

\An*tith"e*sis\, n.; pl. {Antitheses}. [L., fr. Gr. ?, fr. ? to set against, to oppose; ? against + ? to set. See {Thesis}.]
1. (Rhet.) An opposition or contrast of words or sentiments occurring in the same sentence; as, ``The prodigal robs his heir; the miser robs himself.'' ``He had covertly shot at Cromwell; he how openly aimed at the Queen.''
2. The second of two clauses forming an antithesis.
3. Opposition; contrast.