antithesis what is it

Definition of Antithesis

Antithesis is a literary device that refers to the juxtaposition of two opposing elements through the parallel grammatical structure. The word antithesis, meaning absolute opposite, is derived from Greek for “ setting opposite,” indicating when something or someone is in direct contrast or the obverse of another thing or person.

Antithesis is an effective literary and rhetorical device , as it pairs exact opposite or contrasting ideas by utilizing the parallel grammatical structure. This helps readers and audience members define concepts through contrast and develop an understanding of something through defining its opposite. In addition, through the use of parallelism , antithesis establishes a repetitive structure that makes for rhythmic writing and lyrical speech.

For example, Alexander Pope states in  An Essay on Criticism , “ To err is human ; to forgive divine.” Pope’s use of antithesis reflects the impact of this figure of speech in writing, as it creates a clear, memorable, and lyrical effect for the reader. In addition, Pope sets human error in contrast to divine forgiveness, allowing readers to understand that it is natural for people to make mistakes, and therefore worthy for others to absolve them when they do.

Examples of Antithesis in Everyday Speech

Antithesis is often used in everyday speech as a means of conveying opposing ideas in a concise and expressive way. Since antithesis is intended to be a figure of speech, such statements are not meant to be understood in a literal manner. Here are some examples of antithesis used in everyday speech:

• Go big or go home.
• Spicy food is heaven on the tongue but hell in the tummy.
• Those who can, do; those who can’t do, teach.
• Get busy living or get busy dying.
• Speech is silver but silence is gold.
• No pain, no gain.
• It’s not a show, friends; it’s show business.
• No guts, no glory.
• A moment on the lips; a lifetime on the hips.
• If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail.

Common Examples of Antithesis from Famous Speeches

Antithesis can be an effective rhetorical device in terms of calling attention to drastic differences between opposing ideas and concepts. By highlighting the contrast side-by-side with the exact same structure, the speaker is able to impact an audience in a memorable and significant way. Here are some common examples of antithesis from famous speeches:

• “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 .” (Martin Luther King, Jr. “I Have a Dream”)
• “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”)
• “‘Some men see things as they are and say why. I dream things that never were and say why not.'” (Edward Kennedy quoting Robert F. Kennedy during eulogy )
• “We observe today not a victory of party, but a celebration of freedom, symbolizing an end as well as a beginning, signifying renewal as well as change.” (John F. Kennedy “Presidential Inaugural Speech”)
• “You see, for any champion to succeed, he must have a team — a very incredible, special team; people that he can depend on, count on, and rely upon through everything — the highs and lows, the wins and losses, the victories and failures, and even the joys and heartaches that happen both on and off the court.” (Michael Chang “ Induction Speech for Tennis Hall of Fame”)

Examples of Proverbs Featuring Antithesis

Proverbs are simple and often traditional sayings that express insight into truths that are perceived, based on common sense or experience. These sayings are typically intended to be metaphorical and therefore rely on figures of speech such as antithesis. Proverbs that utilize antithetical parallelism feature an antithesis to bring together opposing ideas in defined contrast. Therefore, antithesis is effective as a literary device in proverbs by allowing the reader to consider one idea and then it’s opposite. It also makes for lyrical and easily remembered sayings.

Here are some examples of proverbs featuring antithesis:

• Cleanliness is next to godliness.
• Beggars can’t be choosers.
• Easy come, easy go.
• Hope for the best; prepare for the worst.
• Keep your friends close; keep your enemies closer.
• Like father, like son.
• Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
• An ounce of protection is worth a pound of cure.
• Be slow in choosing, but slower in changing.
• Give them an inch and they’ll take a mile.
• If you can’t beat them, join them.
• Keep your mouth closed and your eyes open.
• One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.
• Out of sight, out of mind.
• Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

Utilizing Antithesis in Writing

As a literary device, antithesis allows authors to add contrast to their writing. This is effective in terms of comparing two contrasting ideas, such as a character’s conflicting emotions or a setting’s opposing elements. In literature, antithesis doesn’t require a pairing of exact opposites, but rather concepts that are different and distinct. In addition, since antithesis creates a lyrical quality to writing through parallel structure , the rhythm of phrasing and wording should be as similar as possible. Like most literary and rhetorical devices, overuse of antithesis will create confusion or invoke boredom in a reader as well as make the writing seem forced.

Antithesis and Parallelism

Both terms demonstrate a fundamental difference. An antithesis comprises two contradictory ideas and parallelism does not necessarily comprise opposite ideas or persons. It could have more than two ideas or persons. As the name suggests that parallelism is a condition where is an antithesis is an opposition. For example, man proposes, God disposes, has two contradictory ideas. However, it is also a parallel sentence . Furthermore, parallelism occurs mostly in structure and less in ideas. Even similar ideas could occur in parallelism, while an antithesis has only dissimilar ideas.

Antithesis and Juxtaposition

As far as juxtaposition is concerned, it means placing two ideas together that are dissimilar. They need not be opposite to each other. In the case of antithesis, they must be opposite to each other as in the case of man proposes, God disposes. Not only these two ideas are dissimilar, but also they are opposite. In the case of juxtaposition, a poet only puts two ideas together and they are not opposed to each other.

Use of Antithesis in Sentences  

• As soon he dies, he becomes a dead living.
• Most people do not understand the value of money when the poor put money ahead of them.
• Some people make money, while some waste it.
• Although they have gone leaps ahead, they have also stepped back just in the nick of time.
• The public comes forward when there is prosperity and moves back when there is adversity.

Examples of Antithesis in Literature

Antithesis is an effective literary device and figure of speech in which a writer intentionally juxtaposes two contrasting ideas or entities. Antithesis is typically achieved through parallel structure, in which opposing concepts or elements are paired in adjacent phrases , clauses , or sentences. This draws the reader’s attention to the significance or importance of the agents being contrasted, thereby adding a memorable and meaningful quality to the literary work.

Here are some examples of antithesis in well-known works of literature:

Example 1:  Hamlet (William Shakespeare)

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

In Shakespeare’s well-known play , he utilizes antithesis as a literary device for Polonius to deliver fatherly advice to his son before Laertes leaves for France. In these lines, Polonius pairs contrasting ideas such as listening and speaking using parallel structure. This adds a lyrical element to the wording, in addition to having a memorable and foreboding impact on the characters and audience members with the meaning of each line.

Despite the attempt by Polonius to impart logical thinking, measured response, and wise counsel to his son through antithesis, Laertes becomes so fixated on avenging his father’s death that his actions are impulsive and imprudent. Polonius’s antithetical words are not heeded by his son, resulting in the death of several characters including Hamlet and Laertes himself.

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.

In Milton’s epic poem , he explores the Fall of Satan as well as the temptation and subsequent Fall of Man. This passage is spoken by Satan after he has been condemned to Hell by God for attempting to assume power and authority in Heaven. Satan is unrepentant of his actions, and wants to persuade his followers that Hell is preferable to Heaven.

Satan utilizes antithesis in the last line of this passage to encourage his rebellious followers to understand that, in Hell, they are free and rule their own destiny. In this line, Milton contrasts not just the ideas of Hell and Heaven, but also of reign and servitude as concepts applied to the angels , respectively. Pairing these opposites by using this literary device has two effects for the reader. First, Satan’s claim foreshadows his ability to use his words describing independence to tempt Eve, resulting in her and Adam’s expulsion from the Garden of Eden. Second, this antithesis invites the reader to consider Satan’s thought-process and experience to gain a deeper understanding of his motives in the poem.

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.

In his poem, Frost utilizes antithesis to contrast fire and ice as elements with devastating and catastrophic potential to end the world. Frost effectively demonstrates the equal powers for the destruction of these elements, despite showcasing them as opposing forces. In this case, the poet’s antithesis has a literal as well as figurative interpretation. As the poem indicates, the world could literally end in the fire as well as ice. However, fire and ice are contrasting symbols in the poem as well. Fire represents “desire,” most likely in the form of greed, the corruption of power, domination, and control. Conversely, ice represents “hate” in the form of prejudice, oppression, neglect, and isolation.

The presence of antithesis in the poem is effective for readers in that it evokes contrasting and powerful imagery of fire and ice as opposing yet physically destructive forces. In addition, the human characteristics associated with fire and ice, and what they represent as psychologically and socially destructive symbols, impact the reader in a powerful and memorable way as well. Antithesis elevates for the reader the understanding that the source of the end of the world may not be natural causes but rather human action or behavior; and that the end of the world may not be simply the destruction of the earth, but rather the destruction of humankind.

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.

These three examples from the address of Abraham Lincoln show the use of contradictory ideas put together in one sentence. They show how he mentions living and dead putting them side by side. This antithesis has helped Lincoln as well as America to come out of the ravages of the Civil War.

Function of Antithesis

An antithesis helps make an idea distinct and prominent when it contradicts another idea in the first part of the argument . This contrastive feature helps make readers make their argument solid, cogent, and eloquent. Sentences comprising anthesis also become easy to remember, quote, and recall when required. When an antithesis occurs in a text, it creates an argumentative atmosphere where a dialectic could take place and helps writers and speakers hook their audience easily with antithetical statements.

Synonyms of Antithesis

Antithesis has no exact synonyms but several words come closer in meanings such as opposite, reverse, converse, reversal, inverse, extreme, another side of the coin, or flip side or contrast.

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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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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 Apr. 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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Meaning of antithesis in English

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• antithetical
• anything but idiom
• diametrical
• dichotomist
• dichotomous
• or otherwise idiom
• poles apart idiom

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Antithesis | american dictionary, examples of antithesis, translations of antithesis.

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• Literary Terms
• Definition & Examples
• How to Use Antithesis

I. What is an Antithesis?

“Antithesis” literally means “opposite” – it is usually the opposite of a statement, concept, or idea. In literary analysis, an antithesis is a pair of statements or images in which the one reverses the other. The pair is written with similar grammatical structures to show more contrast. Antithesis (pronounced an-TITH-eh-sis) is used to emphasize a concept, idea, or conclusion.

II. Examples of Antithesis

That’s one small step for a man – one giant leap for mankind .  (Neil Armstrong, 1969)

In this example, Armstrong is referring to man walking on the moon. Although taking a step is an ordinary activity for most people, taking a step on the moon, in outer space, is a major achievement for all humanity.

To err is human ; to forgive , divine . (Alexander Pope)

This example is used to point out that humans possess both worldly and godly qualities; they can all make mistakes, but they also have the power to free others from blame.

The world will little note , nor long remember , what we say here, but it can never forget what they did  (Abraham Lincoln, The Gettysburg Address )

In his speech, Lincoln points out that the details of that moment may not be memorable, but the actions would make history, and therefore, never entirely forgotten.

Antithesis can be a little tricky to see at first. To start, notice how each of these examples is separated into two parts . The parts are separated either by a dash, a semicolon, or the word “but.” Antithesis always has this multi-part structure (usually there are two parts, but sometimes it can be more, as we’ll see in later examples). The parts are not always as obvious as they are in these examples, but they will always be there.

Next, notice how the second part of each example contains terms that reverse or invert terms in the first part: small step vs. giant leap; human vs. divine; we say vs. they do. In each of the examples, there are several pairs of contrasted terms between the first part and the second, which is quite common in antithesis.

Finally, notice that each of the examples contains some parallel structures and ideas in addition to the opposites. This is key! The two parts are not simply contradictory statements. They are a matched pair that have many grammatical structures or concepts in common; in the details, however, they are opposites.

For example, look at the parallel grammar of Example 1: the word “one,” followed by an adjective, a noun, and then the word “for.” This accentuates the opposites by setting them against a backdrop of sameness – in other words, two very different ideas are being expressed with very, very similar grammatical structures.

To recap: antithesis has three things:

• Two or more parts
• Reversed or inverted ideas
• (usually) parallel grammatical structure

III. The Importance of Verisimilitude

Antithesis is basically a complex form of juxtaposition . So its effects are fairly similar – by contrasting one thing against its opposite, a writer or speaker can emphasize the key attributes of whatever they’re talking about. In the Neil Armstrong quote, for example, the tremendous significance of the first step on the moon is made more vivid by contrasting it with the smallness and ordinariness of the motion that brought it about.

Antithesis can also be used to express curious contradictions or paradoxes. Again, the Neil Armstrong quote is a good example: Armstrong is inviting his listeners to puzzle over the fact that a tiny, ordinary step – not so different from the millions of steps we take each day – can represent so massive a technological accomplishment as the moon landing.

Paradoxically, an antithesis can also be used to show how two seeming opposites might in fact be similar.

IV. Examples of Verisimilitude in Literature

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Forgive us this day our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us . (The Lord’s Prayer)

The antithesis is doing a lot of work here. First, it shows the parallel between committing an evil act and being the victim of one. On the surface, these are opposites, and this is part of the antithesis, but at the same time they are, in the end, the same act from different perspectives. This part of the antithesis is basically just an expression of the Golden Rule.

Second, the antithesis displays a parallel between the speaker (a human) and the one being spoken to (God). The prayer is a request for divine mercy, and at the same time a reminder that human beings should also be merciful.

All the joy the world contains has come through wanting happiness for others . All the misery the world contains has come through wanting pleasure for yourself . (Shantideva, The Way of the Bodhisattva )

The antithesis here comes with some pretty intense parallel structure. Most of the words in each sentence are exactly the same as those in the other sentence. (“All the ___ the world contains has come through wanting ____ for ____.”) This close parallel structure makes the antithesis all the more striking, since the words that differ become much more visible.

Another interesting feature of this antithesis is that it makes “pleasure” and “happiness” seem like opposites, when most of us might think of them as more or less synonymous. The quote makes happiness seem noble and exalted, whereas pleasure is portrayed as selfish and worthless.

The proper function of man is to live , not to exist . I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong  (Jack London, Credo )

The opening antithesis here gets its punch from the fact that we think of living and existing as pretty similar terms. But for London, they are opposites. Living is about having vivid experiences, learning, and being bold; simply existing is a dull, pointless thing. These two apparently similar words are used in this antithesis to emphasize the importance of living as opposed to mere existing.

The second antithesis, on the other hand, is just the opposite – in this case, London is taking two words that seem somewhat opposed (waste and prolong), and telling us that they are in fact the same . Prolonging something is making it last; wasting something is letting it run out too soon. But, says London, when it comes to life, they are the same. If you try too hard to prolong your days (that is, if you’re so worried about dying that you never face your fears and live your life), then you will end up wasting them because you will never do anything worthwhile.

V. Examples of Verisimilitude in Pop Culture

Everybody doesn’t like something, but nobody doesn’t like Sara Lee. (Sara Lee pastry advertisement)

This classic ad uses antithesis to set up a deliberate grammatical error. This is a common technique in advertising, since people are more likely to remember a slogan that is grammatically incorrect. (Even if they only remember it because they found it irritating, it still sticks in their brain, which is all that an ad needs to do.) The antithesis helps make the meaning clear, and throws the grammatical error into sharper relief.

What men must know , a boy must learn . (The Lookouts)

Here’s another example of how parallel structure can turn into antithesis fairly easily. (The structure is noun-“must”-verb. ) The antithesis also expresses the basic narrative of The Lookouts , which is all about kids learning to fend for themselves and become full-fledged adults.

Shut Your Mouth and Open Your Eyes (the band “AFI” – album title)

The antithesis here is a juxtaposition of two different actions (opening and shutting) that are actually part of the same sort of behavior – the behavior of somebody who wants to understand the world rather than be the center of attention. It’s basically a restatement of the old adage that “those who speak the most often have the least to say.”

VI. Related Terms

• Juxtaposition

Antithesis is basically a form of juxtaposition . Juxtaposition, though, is a much broader device that encompasses any deliberate use of contrast or contradiction by an author. So, in addition to antithesis, it might include:

• The scene in “The Godfather” where a series of brutal murders is intercut with shots of a baptism, juxtaposing birth and death.
• “A Song of Ice and Fire” (George R. R. Martin book series)
• Heaven and Hell
• Mountains and the sea
• Dead or alive
• “In sickness and in health”

Antithesis performs a very similar function, but does so in a more complicated way by using full sentences (rather than single words or images) to express the two halves of the juxtaposition.

Here is an antithesis built around some of the common expressions from above

• “ Sheep go to Heaven ; goats go to Hell .”
• “Beethoven’s music is as mighty as the mountains and as timeless as the sea .”
• “In sickness he loved me; in health he abandoned ”

Notice how the antithesis builds an entire statement around the much simpler juxtaposition. And, crucially, notice that each of those statements exhibits parallel grammatical structure . In this way, both Juxtaposition and parallel structures can be used to transform a simple comparison, into antithesis.

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Definition of antithesis noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• Love is the antithesis of selfishness.
• Students finishing their education at 16 is the very antithesis of what society needs.
• The current establishment is the antithesis of democracy.
• antithesis between
• antithesis of

Join our community to access the latest language learning and assessment tips from Oxford University Press!

• There is an antithesis between the needs of the state and the needs of the people.
• the sharp antithesis between their views

Nearby words

What is Antithesis? Definition, Usage, and Literary Examples

Antithesis definition.

Antithesis  (ann-TIH-thuh-suhs), put simply, means the absolute opposite of something. As a literary term, it refers to the juxtaposition of two opposing entities in parallel structure. Antithesis is an effective literary device because humans tend to define through contrast. Therefore, antithesis can help readers understand something by defining its opposite.

Antithesis  comes from the Latin word, via Greek, for “to place against.” It was first used in English in the 1520s as rhetorical term, but the concept goes back at least as far as Aristotle, who believed an argument could be strengthened by illustrating it with contrast.

Examples of Antithesis

• “Spicy food is heaven on the tongue but hell in the tummy.” The concepts of heaven and hell are opposites—the former being very pleasant and ideal, the latter being highly undesirable. This antithetical statement is using these concepts to convey that spicy food is delicious, but it can lead to an unfortunate digestive reaction.
• “I’m either an impressive vegetarian or a disappointing vegan.” On the scale between vegetarianism and the stricter veganism, the speaker’s current diet lies somewhere in the middle. So, while a vegetarian might applaud their efforts, a vegan might berate them for being so lax.
• “Psychiatrists write prescriptions, therapists prescribe writing.” This example includes a humorous inversion to explain the difference between psychiatrists and therapists. The former prescribes medicine to address mental issues on a biological level, while the latter might suggest a more psychologically focused approach, like journaling, as a way of easing mental stress.

Antithesis vs. Other Comparative Terms

There are several literary terms that, like antithesis, make comparisons between two things or concepts that are opposites or contrast in some way. Three such terms are  dichotomy ,  oxymoron , and foil.

Dichotomy is a division between two entities, whereas antithesis pits two opposing entities against each other. For example, the colors black and white are considered opposites, but they are not in opposition; they can’t be in conflict nor do they cancel each other out. The concepts of war and peace, on the other hand, are at odds and can’t be reconciled.

An oxymoron is a contradiction in terms, but unlike antithesis, these terms are working together. The basic oxymoron construction is a word + an antonymic modifier, and the two essentially function as a single unit. For example, calling something a “minor crisis” is an oxymoron because  minor  implies something insignificant, while  crisis  means it requires immediate attention. Based on this, an oxymoron can’t be a component of antithesis because the point of the latter is to pit two things against each other.

Where antithesis is a verbal or written opposition, a foil is a literary opposition, usually embodied by a character in a narrative. For example, Draco Malfoy can be considered Harry Potter’s foil in the  Harry Potter  series because where Harry is honorable and loyal, Draco is somewhat corrupt and unfaithful.

Antithesis Outside of Literature

A common theme in American popular music is the difference between the middle and lower classes. In “Men of Good Fortune” by Lou Reed, the singer describes all the things rich men can do that poor men cannot:

Men of good fortune

Often cause empires to fall

While men of poor beginnings

Often can’t do anything at all

Antithesis is common in political speeches, particularly when it comes to the underrepresented pushing for equitable policies. In Malcolm X’s famous “ Ballot or the Bullet ”  speech, he discusses how America was built by Black and indigenous people for white people’s benefit, saying, “We didn’t land on Plymouth Rock; the rock was landed on us.”

Examples of Antithesis in Literature

1. Charles Dickens,  A Tale of Two Cities

This classic tale of love and sacrifice features the French Revolution as its backdrop. In this tumultuous era, where the differences between the haves and the have-nots was at its starkest, Dickens illustrates the antithetical concepts that existed simultaneously:

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 […]

2. William Shakespeare,  The Merchant of Venice

At the beginning of this romantic comedy, chatty lout Gratiano wants to understand why his friend Antonio is so down—and why anyone would ever be down at all:

And let my liver rather heat with wine

Than my heart cool with mortifying groans.

Gratiano is implying that he’d rather experience life through a chemically altered (and therefore unreliable) lens than face any ordeals, even though they would be truer to reality.

3. John Milton,  Paradise Lost

Milton’s epic poem explores many facets of the Christian bible and belief systems—including the concept of free will. When Lucifer, once one of God’s brightest angels, is cast into Hell, he says, “Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven.” This leads the reader to question whether anyone is truly free, though ultimately the Bible’s core argument is that willingly giving over control to God is what will leads to a happy life.

Further Resources on Antithesis

MasterClass’s  How to Use Antithesis in Your Writing  course is a concise guide on the mechanics of antithesis and when to use it.

This excerpt from  Hegel for Beginners  by Lloyd Spencer is a handy introduction to antithesis as a component of dialectics (a system for pursuing truth by way of logical argument).

Related Terms

• Juxtaposition

Literary Devices

Literary devices, terms, and elements, definition of antithesis.

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.” This is an antithesis example because there is the contrast between the animals and their actions (the peaceful floating butterfly versus the aggressive stinging bee) combined with the parallel grammatical structure of similes indicated by “like a.” Ali is indicating the contrasting skills necessary to be a good boxer.

Difference Between Antithesis and Juxtaposition

Antithesis is very similar to juxtaposition , as juxtaposition also sets two different things close to each other to emphasize the difference between them. However, juxtaposition does not necessarily deal with completely opposite ideas—sometimes the juxtaposition may be between two similar things so that the reader will notice the subtle differences. Juxtaposition also does not necessitate a parallel grammatical structure. The definition of antithesis requires this balanced grammatical structure.

Common Examples of Antithesis

The use of antithesis is very popular in speeches and common idioms, as the inherent contrasts often make antithesis quite memorable. Here are some examples of antithesis from famous speeches:

• “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
• “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country. My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.” –John F. Kennedy Jr.
• “We will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.” –Barack Obama
• “Decided only to be undecided, resolved to be irresolute, adamant for drift, solid for fluidity, all-powerful to be impotent.” –Winston Churchill
• “The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.” –Abraham Lincoln

Significance of Antithesis in Literature

Antithesis can be a helpful tool for the author both to show a character’s mindset and to set up an argument . If the antithesis is something that the character is thinking, the audience can better understand the full scope of that character’s thoughts. While antithesis is not the most ubiquitous of literary devices , some authors use antithesis quite extensively, such as William Shakespeare. Many of his sonnets and plays include examples of antithesis.

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)

Arguably the most famous six words in all of Shakespeare’s work are an example of antithesis. Hamlet considers the important question of “to be, or not to be.” In this line, he is considering the very nature of existence itself. Though the line is quite simple in form it contrasts these very important opposite states. Hamlet sets up his soliloquy with this antithesis and continues with others, including the contrast between suffering whatever fortune has to offer or opposing his troubles. This is a good example of Shakespeare using antithesis to present to the audience or readers Hamlet’s inner life and the range of his thinking.

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)

The opening paragraph of Charles Dickens’s A Tale of Two Cities employs many different literary devices all at once. There are many examples of antithesis back-to-back, starting with the first contrast between “the best of times” and “the worst of times.” Each pair of contrasting opposites uses a parallel structure to emphasize their differences. Dickens uses these antithetical pairs to show what a tumultuous time it was during the setting of his book. In this case, the use of antithesis is a rhetorical device that foreshadows the conflicts that will be central to the novel.

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.

( Catch-22 by Joseph Heller)

In Joseph Heller’s classic anti-war novel Catch-22 , Heller uses a specific type of humor in which antithetical statements show the true absurdity of war. This very famous quote explains the concept of the “Catch-22,” which became a popular idiomatic expression because of the book. In fact, this example is not so much an antithetical statement but instead an antithetical situation. That is to say, the two possible outcomes for Orr are opposite: either he’s deemed crazy and would thus not be forced to fly any more combat missions, or he’s sane and then would indeed have to fly them. However, the one situation negates the possibility of the other, as only a sane man would be clear-headed enough to ask not to fly more missions.

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

1. What is the correct antithesis definition? A. Using two very similar concepts and showing their subtle differences. B. Setting up a contrast between two opposite ideas or phrases in a balanced grammatical structure. C. Using words to convey an opposite meaning to their literal sense.

2. What is the difference between antithesis and juxtaposition? A. They are exactly the same device. B. They are completely different literary devices. C. Antithesis parallels opposite concepts, while juxtaposition sets up a comparison and contrast between two concepts that can be either similar or different.

3. Which of the following quotes from Shakespeare’s Macbeth contains an example of antithesis? A. 

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?

• Scriptwriting

What is Antithesis — Definition & Examples in Literature & Film

I f you’ve ever heard sentence structure, met characters, or witnessed ideas that seem diametrically opposed, you’re actually pretty familiar with the idea of the antithesis. But there is more to it than just juxtaposing ideas. Read on to learn exactly what is antithesis, how this tool is used, and how you can include an antithesis in your next project. 

Antithesis Definition

First, let’s define antithesis.

There are a number of terms often confused for antithesis (like paradox or oxymoron ). But an antithesis has a particular grammatical structure that helps differentiate it from the rest. So, here’s the antithesis definition and then we'll look at specific examples:

ANTITHESIS DEFINITION

What is antithesis.

An antithesis is a rhetorical and literary device with parallel grammar structure but which establishes a nearly complete or exact opposition in ideas or characters. It can be effective in emphasizing drastic differences between opposing concepts.

How to pronounce antithesis: [an-TITH-uh-sis]  

Familiar antithesis examples:

• “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”
• “No pain, no gain.”
• “Out of sight, out of mind.”

The word “antithesis” comes from the Greek word meaning “setting opposite,” which is an idea that has been used in various forms. Let’s look at those various forms in more antithesis examples.

Antitheses Examples

How do we use antithesis today.

The purpose of antithetical language is not just mentioning the existence of opposing ideas, but rather emphasizing the stark differences between them.  The often lyrical and rhythmic nature of this device helps accentuate the parallel grammatical structure.

Watch the video below to learn more about how we use antitheses today. 

Antithesis Definition, Examples and Techniques

We use this device in that pure form today (see the examples above) in everyday turns of phrase. But there are more in-depth ways (in actions and story in general) that fit the antithesis definition. 

People and characters can act in an antithetical manner to their beliefs.

Antithesis Examples in Behavior: 

• A character who says they love animals but wears real fur coats.
• Someone who says they are vegetarian but eats a big steak for dinner.
• A person who uses a “Shop Small” tote bag but does their holiday shopping at Walmart. 

In addition, characters in literary or scripted works, much like people, can be antitheses to each other in and of themselves. In fact, this is often how great villains are created.

Check out the video below to see more on writing great villains , and how antagonists can mirror or juxtapose protagonists . 

Page to Picture: How to Write a Villain  •   Subscribe on YouTube

Protagonists can be an “antihero,” or the villain of a story can be portrayed separately as a parallel to the protagonist; therefore, the protagonist and antagonist highlight each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and evil and benevolent qualities. Some classic examples of this pseudo-mirrored antagonist concept are: 

Snow White and the Queen

Batman and Joker

Dumbledore and Voldemort

As you can see, the antithesis is typically the ultimate antagonist, even if the character they are meant to parallel isn’t the protagonist, as is the case in the Harry Potter series. 

Both a strong example of antithesis and nuanced portrayal of complicated character relationships, the Harry Potter series showcases a number of moral ambiguities as they pertain to Dumbledore and Voldemort.

We imported the script into StudioBinder’s screenwriting software to see exactly how this juxtaposition is first established.

Read Full Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Script

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone masterfully establishes the characteristics that Harry and Voldemort share, but it also establishes similarities between Dumbledore and Voldemort.

Throughout the series, these shared traits influence Dumbledore and Voldemort in their objectives and decisions. 

For instance, in the Sorcerer’s Stone , we are introduced to how Voldemort and Dumbledore move through the world. Hagrid tells Harry early on about Voldemort’s rise to power: he was a wizard “who went as bad as you can go [...] anyone who stood up to him ended up dead.” Hagrid frames Voldemort as a powerful wizard, capable of massive destruction. 

Antithesis Example in Harry Potter  •   Read Full Scene

Alternatively, towards the end of the first film Dumbledore explains his tactics in his work with Nicolas Flamel on the Sorcerer’s Stone . “Only a person who wanted to find the stone—find it, but not use it—would be able to get it.” Dumbledore respects power and the laws of magic, and his actions reflect that. 

Further into the series, in Order of the Phoenix , we see what happens when Dumbledore’s tremendous abilities collide with Voldemort’s formidable power in their epic Ministry of Magic duel.

Voldemort’s spells all aim to destruct, whereas Dumbledore’s are equally amazing, but meant to disarm, distinguish, or defend. 

The series is a remarkable example of how antitheses can be essential to a story, and the respective backstories, unique abilities, and of course choices of Voldemort and Dumbledore prove it.  

Implementing Antitheses

How to use antithesis.

With all the ways you can implement and define antithesis, it’s good to have a number of tricks or rules of thumb to keep in your back pocket. Whether you’re writing a short story or your next feature screenplay, here are some things you can keep in mind. 

1. Aim for Moderation

If you’re using antithesis in the form of a rhetorical device, try to keep the number of antitheses to a minimum unless it’s a crucial character trait of the speaker. Using a similar literary device too often can leave your writing predictable or even annoying. The more you use a tool, like antithetical language, the less meaning it can have. 

2. Similar Structure

Keep the structure of your antithesis as similar as possible if you want to highlight the differences more intensely. And try to keep the phrasing itself balanced. Both variables of the equation don’t have to be exact, but the lyrical phrasing can help your antithesis shine and stick long after the read. 

3. Focus on Differences

Focus on contrast but remember to find ways to draw the parallels. How can the characters be compared to the point where their differences become obvious? How can their differences lead to conversation about how the characters may actually be similar? 

Antitheses via characters and sentence structure can assist in not just interesting writing, but memorable writing. They can make your message more understandable and retainable, which should be a top goal in any written work. You never want to give you reader a reason to stop reading.

So, now that you’ve learned more about how an antithesis can strengthen your work, you can implement it  into your next project like a pro.

After all, no guts, no glory. 

What is Irony?

Antithesis is a rhetorical device you can use in everyday speech. Much like an antithesis, we encounter several types of irony in everyday life, too. Keep reading to learn about the types of irony and how they’re used in TV and Film. 

Up Next: Irony Explained →

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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 Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

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Today we’ll learn about the art of contrasting ideas; antithesis is a popular word used when describing opposites; it’s a commonly used literary device in the English language. 

If you’re itching to learn more about antithesis, keep reading. We have all the necessary information below on your word of the day. 

What Is the Definition of Antithesis? 

Antithesis is the opposite of a person or thing; it’s a figure of speech and a commonly used literary device in the English language. 

Antithesis is another way to claim two things are direct opposites or exact opposites . It can also be a rhetorical device showing a contrast of ideas by using parallel grammatical arrangements (we’ll talk more about these later.)

If you learned about the Hegelian dialectic in school, then chances are you’re familiar (or have at least heard) this word once or twice. The Hegelian dialectic is when the idea presented in an argument is countered with the opposing idea. Then, the two are reconciled in the synthesis. You need a thesis to have an antithesis, or else you would have nothing to compare it to. 

Chances are you’ve heard or seen antithesis before without even realizing it. For example, did you know the famous John F. Kennedy quote, explaining how U.S. citizens should stop asking for their country to better them, but how they could better their country is the perfect example of an antithesis? That’s right — and if you look closely at the quote, we bet you’ll see how. This famous sentence exemplifies the resounding effect and is a tool many writers, speakers, and poets use. 

Antithesis is used in tons of famous literature including “Paradise Lost” by John Milton, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s speeches, Abraham Lincoln’s famous speech, “ The Gettysburg Address,”,” A Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens, and “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare.  

Parallel Grammatical Structure 

Before we get into the depths of what antithesis means, we want to break down everything we just covered. We explained that antithesis is used as a literary device since it’s a great way to mirror opposing ideas by using parallel grammatical structuring — but what is parallel grammatical structuring? Let us explain!

Essentially parallel sentence structuring is a tool to show the juxtaposition of contrasting ideas. The parallelism effect can help readability while making the text easier to process. It can be challenging to introduce the contrast of ideas without completely confusing the reader. This literary tool makes it much easier for the writer to portray his or her idea to the reader so they can understand the objective and message behind the text. 

What Is the Origin of Antithesis? 

Wondering what the etymology of antithesis is? You’re in luck, we have tons of information about its origin below. 

Antithesis is a noun and is derived from a late Latin and Greek root meaning “setting opposites,” “opposition,” or “set against.” It has always been used to describe two terms, ideas, clauses, or sentences that contrast while remaining within a balanced grammatical structure.

Writers as old as Aristotle have utilized this traditional pattern to help enhance their written and verbal communication — Aristotle claimed antithesis helps the audience better understand the objective the speaker is trying to make. 

How Can You Use Antithesis? 

An antithesis is a commonly used literary tool and is commonly utilized in speeches or music. It can be tricky to think up a solid antithesis on your own, but that’s what makes a good writer a great one — processing the ability to bring both (or all) their ideas together at the end of their story. 

A great storyteller must find a way to bring all the working parts of their piece together in the story’s final stages. The objective and message must be clear making the rest of the text seem very concise and well thought-out. 

Reading speeches or stories known for their impressive antitheseis is a great way to gain more knowledge on this topic and will make the task of thinking of your own that much easier!

Examples of Antithesis 

Sometimes the easiest way to learn about a new word is by analyzing its use in sentences. 

Remember, antithesis is a word that can be used in a sentence to describe the opposite of something, but it can also be a literary device to enhance readability. We’re going to give you example sentences in both forms. 

Love is a desired thing, but a marriage is a real thing. 

He’s easy on the eyes but hard on my heart.

It’s never too early, and never too late.

This is one small step for man, but one giant leap for mankind.

Many are called, but few are chosen.

Go big or go home.

Spicy food feels like heaven on your tongue, but hell in the tummy.

Those who can do; those who can’t do, teach.

Get busy living or get busy dying.

Speech is silver, but silence is golden.

No pain, no gain.

It’s not a show, friends; it’s show business.

No guts, no glory.

If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail.

Slavery is the antithesis of freedom. 

His character is the antithesis of Jamie’s attitude.  

Her attitude was an antithesis of mine. 

In Conclusion 

Reading and learning about a word is the first step to becoming a master of its use. Even though formulating a great antithesis on your own isn’t the easiest task, practice makes perfect — you won’t ever succeed if you don’t try. 

Sources: 

Parallel Structure | Ever Green 

Hegelian Dialectic Definition and Meaning | Collins English Dictionary

Antithesis Definition & Meaning | Dictionary.com

Kevin Miller is a growth marketer with an extensive background in Search Engine Optimization, paid acquisition and email marketing. He is also an online editor and writer based out of Los Angeles, CA. He studied at Georgetown University, worked at Google and became infatuated with English Grammar and for years has been diving into the language, demystifying the do's and don'ts for all who share the same passion! He can be found online here.

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• English Grammar
• Figures Of Speech

Antithesis: Meaning, Definition and Examples

Figures of speech , otherwise known as rhetorical devices, are used in the English language to beautify and make your language look and sound a lot more effective rather than a literal presentation of information. Each figure of speech has its function and is meant to perform its roles giving the context a unique effect. In this article, you will learn about one such figure of speech called antithesis. Read through the article to learn more about what antithesis is, its definition and how it differs from an oxymoron. You can also check out the examples and analyse how it is written for an in-depth understanding of the same.

Table of Contents

What is antithesis – meaning and definition, what differentiates an antithesis from an oxymoron, some common examples of antithesis, frequently asked questions on antithesis.

An antithesis is a figure of speech that states strongly contrasting ideas placed in juxtaposition. They contain compound sentences with the two independent clauses separated by a comma or a semicolon , in most cases. However, there are also instances where the antithesis is a compound sentence with a conjunction . An antithesis is mainly used to portray the stark difference between the two opposing ideas.

Antithesis, according to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, is defined as “a contrast between two things”, and according to the Cambridge Dictionary, “a difference or opposition between two things”. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary gives a more explanatory definition. According to it, antithesis is “the rhetorical contrast of ideas by means of parallel arrangements of words, clauses, or sentences”.

Knowing the difference between an antithesis and an oxymoron will help you comprehend and use both the rhetorical devices effectively. Take a look at the table given below to learn more.

Here are some of the most common examples of antithesis for your reference.

• Hope for the best; prepare for the worst.
• Keep your mouth closed and your eyes open.
• “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. It was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness.” – Charles Dickens
• “That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.” – Neil Armstrong
• “Better to reign in Hell, than to serve in Heaven.” – John Milton
• Speech is silver, but silence is gold.
• “Give every man thy ear, but few thy voice.” – William Shakespeare
• Keep your friends close; keep your enemies closer.
• “To err is human; to forgive divine.” – Alexander Pope
• Money is the root of all evil: poverty is the fruit of all goodness.

What is antithesis?

An antithesis is a figure of speech that states strongly contrasting ideas placed in juxtaposition. They contain compound sentences with the two independent clauses separated by a comma or a semicolon, in most cases. However, there are also instances where the antithesis is a compound sentence with a conjunction.

What is the definition of antithesis?

What is the difference between antithesis and oxymoron.

The main difference between an antithesis and an oxymoron is that antithesis refers to the use of two contrasting ideas or thoughts conveyed in two independent clauses placed in juxtaposition, separated by a comma, a semicolon or a conjunction; whereas, the term ‘oxymoron’ refers to the use of two opposite words within a phrase to create an effect.

Give some examples of antithesis.

Here are a few examples of antithesis for your reference.

• “Love is an ideal thing, marriage a real thing.” – Goethe
• “Folks who have no vices have very few virtues.” – Abraham Lincoln
• “Man proposes, God disposes.”
• Beggars can’t be choosers.
• Be slow in choosing, but slower in changing.

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Antithesis: Definition, Grammartical Structure and Examples

Antithesis is a rhetorical device that involves contrasting two opposing ideas in a sentence or a paragraph. It is a powerful tool used in literature, speeches, and debates to emphasize the difference between two ideas. The word antithesis is derived from the Greek word “antitithenai,” which means “to oppose” or “to set against.”

Antithesis can be used to create a memorable impact on the audience. It draws attention to the stark contrast between two opposing ideas, making it easier for the audience to understand the message being conveyed. Antithesis can be used in various forms, such as contrasting words, phrases, or entire sentences. It is often used in famous speeches, such as Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, where he used antithesis to emphasize the difference between segregation and equality.

Antithesis Definitions

Greek Origins

The word “antithesis” has its roots in the Greek word “antithenai,” which means “to oppose.” The Greek word “tithenai” also contributed to the development of “antithesis,” as it means “to put, set, or place.” These Greek words were used to describe the concept of setting something in opposition to another thing, or placing two contrasting ideas side by side for comparison.

Modern Definitions

According to Merriam-Webster, “antithesis” has two primary definitions. The first definition is “the direct opposite,” while the second definition is “the rhetorical contrast of ideas by means of parallel arrangements of words, clauses, or sentences.” This second definition refers to the use of antithesis as a literary device, where contrasting ideas are presented in a parallel structure for emphasis or effect.

Other definitions of “antithesis” include “opposition” and “contrast.” Synonyms for “antithesis” include “contradiction,” “counterpart,” and “inverse.”

Overall, the concept of antithesis has evolved from its Greek origins to become a widely recognized literary device used in various forms of writing and speech. By presenting contrasting ideas in a parallel structure, writers and speakers can create a powerful sense of contrast and emphasis that can capture the attention of their audience.

Understanding Antithesis

In Rhetoric

Antithesis is a rhetorical device that involves the use of contrasting concepts, words, or sentences within parallel grammatical structures to create a balanced and contrasting effect. This literary device is often used to emphasize the differences between two ideas or concepts, thereby creating a more powerful and memorable message.

Antithesis is commonly used in persuasive writing and speeches, as it allows the speaker or writer to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of opposing viewpoints. By presenting two contrasting ideas side by side, the audience is able to see the differences more clearly and make a more informed decision.

In Literature

In literature, antithesis is used to create a sense of tension and drama by contrasting two opposing ideas or concepts. This technique is often used in poetry, where contrasting concepts are used to create a more powerful and memorable image or message.

In literature, antithesis is often used to create a sense of irony or contradiction, as the author juxtaposes two opposing ideas to create a more complex and nuanced message. For example, in Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities, the opening lines “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” use antithesis to highlight the stark contrasts between the two cities.

In Speeches

Antithesis is a common rhetorical device used in speeches to create a more powerful and memorable message. By presenting two contrasting ideas side by side, the speaker is able to emphasize the differences between them and create a more persuasive argument.

Antithesis is often used in political speeches, where the speaker may use contrasting concepts to highlight the differences between their own policies and those of their opponents. For example, in John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address, he used antithesis when he said “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”

Overall, antithesis is a powerful literary and rhetorical device that can be used in a variety of contexts to create a more memorable and persuasive message. By presenting two contrasting ideas side by side, the speaker or writer is able to highlight the differences between them and create a more nuanced and complex message that is more likely to be remembered by the audience.

Grammatical Structure

Antithesis is a rhetorical device that uses contrasting ideas in parallel grammatical structures to create emphasis and highlight the differences between them. The grammatical structure of antithesis is essential to its effectiveness, as it creates a balance between the opposing ideas and makes them more memorable to the reader or listener.

Parallelism

Parallelism is a crucial aspect of antithesis. It involves using the same grammatical structure for both contrasting ideas, such as using the same sentence structure for two opposing phrases. This technique creates a rhythmic effect that draws the reader’s attention to the contrasting ideas and emphasizes the differences between them.

For instance, Martin Luther King Jr. used parallelism in his famous “I Have a Dream” speech when he said, “Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood.”

Contrasting Ideas

Antithesis relies on contrasting ideas to create a powerful effect. These ideas can be expressed through sentences, clauses, phrases, or words. The contrasting ideas must be balanced to create a harmonious effect, which is achieved through the use of parallelism.

For example, in Shakespeare’s play “Julius Caesar,” Mark Antony uses antithesis to compare the honorable Brutus to the treacherous Cassius. He says, “Brutus is an honorable man; so are they all, all honorable men,” emphasizing the contrast between Brutus’s character and his actions.

In conclusion, the grammatical structure of antithesis is crucial to its effectiveness. The use of parallelism and contrasting ideas creates a rhythmic effect that draws the reader’s attention and emphasizes the differences between the opposing ideas. By using a balanced grammatical structure, antithesis creates a memorable effect that enhances the impact of the message being conveyed.

Antithesis Examples

Antithesis is a literary device that positions opposite ideas parallel to each other. This section will explore some examples of antithesis in literature, speeches, and everyday life.

Antithesis is widely used in literature to create a contrast between two different ideas. One of the most famous examples of antithesis is found in Charles Dickens’ “A Tale of Two Cities”: “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.”

William Shakespeare also used antithesis in his writing. In “Romeo and Juliet,” he writes, “My only love sprung from my only hate! / Too early seen unknown, and known too late!” This example shows how antithesis can create a powerful contrast between love and hate.

Antithesis is also commonly used in speeches to emphasize opposing ideas. Martin Luther King Jr. used antithesis in his famous “I Have a Dream” speech: “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.” This example highlights the contrast between living together peacefully and the consequences of not doing so.

Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address is another famous example of antithesis in speeches. He said, “It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us.” This example contrasts the work of those who fought with the work that still needs to be done.

In Everyday Life

Antithesis is also commonly used in everyday life, often without people realizing it. For example, the famous quote by Neil Armstrong , “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” is an example of antithesis. The contrast between the small step and the giant leap creates a powerful image of the significance of the event.

Another example of antithesis in everyday life is the phrase “no pain, no gain.” This phrase emphasizes the contrast between the discomfort of hard work and the benefits that come from it.

In conclusion, antithesis is a powerful literary device that can be used to emphasize contrasting ideas. It is commonly used in literature, speeches, and everyday life to create a memorable and impactful message.

The Impact of Antithesis

On audience.

Antithesis can have a profound impact on an audience. By presenting contrasting ideas in a balanced grammatical structure, it captures the attention of the audience and creates a sense of tension that keeps them engaged. The use of antithesis can also make content more memorable and effective, as it creates a sense of rhythm and imagery that sticks with the audience long after they have finished reading or listening.

Antithesis can be a powerful tool for writers and speakers looking to convey complex ideas in a clear and concise manner. By juxtaposing opposing ideas, it allows them to highlight the differences between them and make their point more effectively. Antithesis can also be used to create a sense of tension and drama in a piece of content, which can help to keep the audience engaged and interested.

When used effectively, antithesis can be a powerful tool for writers and speakers looking to create memorable and effective content. By capturing the attention of the audience and creating a sense of tension and drama, it can help to convey complex ideas in a clear and concise manner. Whether used for rhetorical effect or simply to create a sense of rhythm and imagery, antithesis is a powerful tool that should not be overlooked.

Antithesis and Other Literary Devices

Antithesis is often used in conjunction with other literary devices to create a more impactful effect. One such device is the oxymoron, which is a figure of speech that combines two contradictory terms. An oxymoron can be used to create a sense of irony or to highlight a paradox. For example, the phrase “bittersweet” is an oxymoron because it combines two opposite terms.

Another literary device that can be used in conjunction with antithesis is the foil. A foil is a character who is used to contrast with another character in order to highlight their differences. This can be used to create a sense of conflict or to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of a particular character. For example, in Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet,” the character of Hamlet is contrasted with the character of Laertes in order to highlight their different approaches to revenge.

While antithesis is often used to highlight contrasts and opposing ideas, it can also be used to create a sense of synthesis. Synthesis is the process of combining two or more ideas in order to create a new and more complex idea. For example, the phrase “the pen is mightier than the sword” combines the idea of writing (which is often associated with intellect) with the idea of physical force (which is often associated with strength) in order to create a new and more complex idea.

Antithesis, oxymorons, foils, and synthesis are all powerful literary devices that can be used to create a sense of comparison and contrast. By using these devices, writers can create more impactful and memorable works that speak to the complexities of mankind.

Common Misconceptions and Overuse

Antithesis is a powerful literary device that can add depth and complexity to writing. However, it is often misunderstood and overused, leading to annoying and cliché writing. In this section, we will address some common misconceptions and overuse of antithesis.

One common misconception is that antithesis must always involve a direct opposition between two ideas or words. While this is often the case, antithesis can also involve a contrast between two related ideas or words. For example, “love and hate” are direct opposites, while “love and indifference” are related but contrasting ideas.

Another misconception is that antithesis should be used in every sentence or paragraph. Overuse of antithesis can lead to annoying and cliché writing. It is important to use antithesis sparingly and only when it adds value to the writing.

Additionally, some writers may try to force antithesis into their writing, resulting in awkward and unnatural phrasing. It is important to use antithesis in a way that flows naturally and enhances the meaning of the writing.

Overall, antithesis is a powerful tool that can add depth and complexity to writing. However, it should be used sparingly and only when it adds value to the writing. Avoid overuse and forcing antithesis into writing, as this can lead to annoying and cliché writing.

In conclusion, antithesis is a rhetorical device that involves the use of contrasting or opposite ideas in a balanced grammatical structure. It is commonly used in literature, speeches, and other forms of communication to create emphasis, contrast, and impact.

Antithesis is often used in conjunction with the thesis-antithesis-synthesis dialectic, a process of logical argumentation that involves presenting a thesis, then presenting its opposite (antithesis), and finally synthesizing the two opposing viewpoints to arrive at a new conclusion.

Through the use of antithesis, writers and speakers can create a sense of tension and drama, as well as emphasize the differences between two opposing ideas. It can also be used to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of different arguments and perspectives, and to help readers or listeners come to their own conclusions about a particular topic.

Overall, antithesis is a powerful tool for writers and speakers who wish to make a strong impression on their audience. By using contrasting or opposite ideas in a balanced structure, they can create a sense of tension and drama, emphasize key points, and help their audience come to their own conclusions about a particular topic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the definition of antithesis?

Antithesis is a figure of speech that contrasts two opposing ideas in a sentence or a phrase. It is often used to create a dramatic effect or to emphasize a point. The term comes from the Greek word “antithesis,” which means “opposition.”

Can you give an example of antithesis in literature?

One famous example of antithesis in literature is the opening lines of Charles Dickens’ “A Tale of Two Cities”: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness.” This sentence contrasts the two opposing ideas of good and bad, wisdom and foolishness, to emphasize the stark differences between the two cities.

How is antithesis different from juxtaposition?

Antithesis and juxtaposition are both figures of speech that involve contrasting two ideas. However, antithesis specifically involves contrasting two opposing ideas, while juxtaposition can contrast any two ideas, regardless of whether they are opposing or not.

What are some common uses of antithesis?

Antithesis is commonly used in literature, speeches, and advertising to create a memorable impact on the audience. It can be used to emphasize a point, create a dramatic effect, or to convey a deeper meaning.

What is the purpose of using antithesis in writing?

The purpose of using antithesis is to create a contrast between two opposing ideas, which can help to emphasize a point or to create a memorable impact on the audience. It can also be used to convey a deeper meaning or to create a dramatic effect.

Can you provide an example of antithesis in a school setting?

An example of antithesis in a school setting could be the phrase “knowledge is power, ignorance is weakness.” This phrase contrasts the two opposing ideas of knowledge and ignorance to emphasize the importance of education.

Related Posts:

What Is Antithesis? Definition, History & Examples

Antithesis is a figure of speech that contains an opposite idea or proposition. It’s used to create contrast between two ideas, so that one stands out more than the other.

The first step in understanding how to use antithesis is to understand the basics of classical grammar. Classical grammar is based on Latin and Greek, which are both dead languages.

If you don’t know what those words mean, then you’re going to have a hard time with this article.

What Is Antithesis

What is antithesis.

Antithesis is the direct opposite of a statement. Antithesis means “the placing of two concepts, words or sentences in opposition to each other” or “the juxtaposition of contrasting ideas so as to achieve emphasis.”

Antithesis is often used to make an author’s point clear. Here are some examples from literature:

“To be or not to be” is the famous line from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, which uses antithesis to express the main character’s inner conflict.

In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, there are several examples of antithesis: “I wish I could write like that,” Nick Carraway says at one point . Later on in the book, he says, “I am glad you’re here because I don’t want to be alone.”

Both statements use antithesis to express a feeling of loneliness and isolation, even though they seem contradictory on their surface (Nick wants company but doesn’t want company).

Antithesis is a powerful literary device that pits contrasting ideas against each other to create a striking effect.

We’ll jump into how it’s used to emphasize differences and bring out the depth in arguments, poetry, and prose.

Definition Of Antithesis

Antithesis is a foundational element in storytelling and scriptwriting.

It’s a rhetorical device that pits two contrasting or opposing ideas against each other to create a distinct effect.

This technique is not just limited to discussions or arguments but is also widely employed within the realms of cinema and literature.

Through antithesis, filmmakers are able to convey complex concepts by juxtaposing conflicting elements that can resonate deeply with audiences.

The power of antithesis lies in its simplicity and impact.

By placing two diametrically opposed ideas in close proximity, the differences between them become stark and the message more potent.

Consider The Dark Knight , where the moral integrity of Batman stands in sharp contrast to the anarchic nature of the Joker.

Famed lines from the film like “You either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain” serve as perfect examples of antithesis in action.

Incorporating antithesis in our film scripts involves a few key approaches –

• Crafting characters with opposing worldviews or ethical standards.
• Developing dialogues that express conflicting ideologies within a single conversation.
• Using visual elements that embody opposing themes such as light versus dark or chaos versus order.

This literary device is equally effective in non-dialogue contexts.

It’s often used in the editing room where contrasting shots are sequenced to emphasize a thematic or narrative conflict.

The strategic use of antithesis enables filmmakers like us to deliver thought-provoking content that engages viewers on a deeper level.

It’s an invaluable tool in our arsenal, enhancing the emotional and intellectual impact of our storytelling.

Types Of Antithesis

In our exploration of antithesis, it’s crucial to recognize the different forms it can take.

Each type employs a unique method to deliver contrasts that enhance narrative and thematic depth.

Juxtaposition of Characters – When we craft stories, we often build tension and highlight themes by creating characters with diametrically opposed traits.

A classic example is the righteous protagonist pitted against a morally ambiguous antagonist.

Films like The Dark Knight leverage this type of antithesis, delving into the complexity of heroism and villainy.

Clashing of Ideas – Beyond characters, antithesis manifests through the collision of ideas.

This form galvanizes audiences, compelling them to engage with the moral or intellectual dilemmas presented.

We see this in works such as To Kill a Mockingbird , where notions of justice and prejudice are in constant opposition.

Visual Contradictions :

• Light and shadow,
• Small versus large elements,
• Color contrasts.

These techniques are fundamental in translating antithesis into our visual storytelling.

They elevate the subtext and set the tone without uttering a single word.

In Schindler’s List , the poignant use of color amidst monochrome imagery exemplifies this powerful device.

Opposing Dialogues – In scripts, lines that reflect antithetical views can be subtle or overt.

The impact lies in the delivery and context, often leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.

This approach is at the heart of many iconic film exchanges and is especially evident in courtroom dramas or political thrillers.

Contrasting Shot Sequences – When editing, we sequence shots to reflect opposing themes or narratives.

This form of antithesis is dynamic, relying on visual storytelling to convey conflict.

It’s a staple in action-packed sequences as well as in more nuanced, emotionally-driven scenes.

Examples Of Antithesis In Literature

Antithesis in literature often reveals complex characters and thought-provoking conflicts.

These examples showcase writers’ meticulous use of this device to enhance their storytelling.

Literary giants like William Shakespeare frequently employed antithesis.

In Hamlet , the juxtaposition of life and death is evident in the protagonist’s soliloquies.

The use of antithesis deepens our understanding of Hamlet’s inner turmoil and contemplation of existence.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is another classic example.

The inherent tension between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr.

Darcy emanates from their contrasting social standings and personalities.

Their evolving relationship exemplifies how antithesis can drive character development and plot.

Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities starts with a famous antithetical sentence.

It contrasts various aspects of the era, such as “the best of times, the worst of times”.

This sets the stage for a novel that delves into the dichotomy between the French aristocracy and the suffering lower classes.

In modern literature, J.

Rowling’s Harry Potter series pits good against evil.

Harry’s humble beginnings starkly contrast with Voldemort’s quest for power and immortality.

The series thrives on antithetical forces shaping the wizarding world’s destiny.

Antithesis isn’t only about opposing characters or themes but often surfaces in:

• Poetic devices – where contrasting images or sounds emphasize a point,
• Moral dilemmas – where characters face tough choices between right and wrong,
• Symbolic settings – where places like utopias and dystopias highlight societal contrasts.

Understanding and identifying antithesis enriches the reading experience.

It helps us grasp the complexities of characters and the nuances of the narrative fabric.

By highlighting these literary instances, we recognize the potency of antithesis in storytelling.

Our appreciation deepens for the authors’ skill in weaving together elements that, at first glance, seem diametrically opposed.

Antithesis In Poetry

Poetry is a realm where antithesis thrives, often breathing life into the verses and stimulating the reader’s senses.

The technique is wielded to evoke emotional responses and highlight the depth of a poem’s theme.

By placing contrasting ideas near each other, poets can accentuate the beauty or the tragedy in their message, crafting layers of meaning with just a few well-chosen words.

The power of antithesis in poetry lies in its ability to quickly juxtapose conflicting emotions or ideas, making the experience very intense for the reader.

By balancing opposites, poets like Robert Frost in The Road Not Taken reveal the profound dilemmas and decisions we face in life.

In understanding antithesis within poetic stanzas, we find that popular devices include:

• Opposing concepts placed in adjacent lines,
• Contrast between the poem’s rhythm and its subject matter,
• Dualities in nature or emotions, emphasized by their coexistence.

When reading poetry, we’re not just scanning words; we’re delving into a world where antithesis shapes our understanding of the dualities that define human experience .

Whether it’s a contrast between love and hate, or life and death, antithesis ensures that these themes resonate with power and clarity.

Poets wield antithesis not just for the sake of contrast, but also to create a resonance that heightens the impact of their message.

We feel the pull of these opposing forces and are compelled to explore the depths of the poems more thoroughly.

As we immerse ourselves in their verses, these contrasts become a gateway to a richer comprehension of the poet’s vision.

Should we aim to write compelling poetry or analyze the works of others, recognizing the role of antithesis is key.

It’s this recognition that allows us to appreciate the full spectrum of a poem’s emotional and intellectual landscape.

Antithesis Vs. Oxymoron: What’s The Difference?

When exploring the depths of literary devices , it’s easy to confuse antithesis with oxymoron.

Each has a unique role in rhetoric and storytelling.

Antithesis involves juxtaposing two contrasting ideas in close proximity, often to highlight a conflict or create a compelling point.

In contrast, an oxymoron combines two opposing terms to describe a singular idea or to create a paradoxical image.

Consider the differences between the two:

• Antithesis – emphasizes a clear contrast between two ideas – Oxymoron – blends two contradictory words to form a new, paradoxical concept.

A filmmaker might use antithesis to convey a character’s internal struggle.

An example would be the depiction of a noble thief, showcasing the contradiction between theft and nobility.

An oxymoron , on the other hand, often adds a layer of complexity within dialogue or a film’s theme.

A classic example is the term ‘deafening silence’, which vividly describes a silence so profound it feels loud.

In The Dark Knight , the Joker represents chaotic principles whereas Batman represents order.

This is antithesis.

Yet when the Joker describes the unfolding anarchy as “aggressively peaceful”, that’s an oxymoron.

Understanding these nuances not only refines our appreciation for storytelling in film and literature but also sharpens our own writing skills.

It allows us to inject layers of meaning and emotional resonance into our screenplays and dialogue.

We recognize oxymorons quickly when they appear because they sound inherently contradictory.

They grab our attention and can be used for effect or humor.

Antithesis, by drawing on contrast, invites audiences to explore complexities within characters and narratives, often prompting a deeper reflection on the themes presented.

It’s less about a quick impact and more about provoking thought and exposing truths.

What Is Antithesis – Wrap Up

We’ve delved into the intricacies of antithesis and its pivotal role in storytelling.

It’s clear that this literary device is not just a stylistic choice but a powerful tool for writers to convey complex ideas and engage their audience.

By contrasting characters, themes, or situations, authors can craft narratives with greater depth and invite us to consider different perspectives.

As avid readers or writers ourselves, recognizing the subtle dance between antithesis and oxymoron enriches our experience with literature and film.

Let’s carry these insights forward and see the world of storytelling through a more nuanced lens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is antithesis in storytelling.

Antithesis in storytelling is the juxtaposition of two contrasting ideas to emphasize a conflict or create a compelling point.

It is used to enhance narrative and thematic depth in films and literature.

What Are The Different Types Of Antithesis In Storytelling?

The types of antithesis in storytelling typically involve character contrasts, conflicting themes or ideologies, and contrasting settings or scenarios.

These antitheses enrich the story by highlighting the complex nature of characters and themes.

How Does Antithesis Differ From Oxymoron?

Antithesis differs from oxymoron in that antithesis contrasts two ideas to showcase a conflict or make a point, while oxymoron combines two opposing terms to describe a single idea or create a paradoxical image.

Why Is Understanding Antithesis Important For Writers?

Understanding antithesis is important for writers as it allows them to create more layered and engaging narratives.

It invites readers to explore complexities within characters and themes, prompting deeper reflection on the story’s message.

How Does Antithesis Affect An Audience’s Experience?

Antithesis affects an audience’s experience by adding depth to the narrative and characters, often leading to greater engagement and prompting audiences to reflect more deeply on the themes presented in the story.

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How To Hire a Screenwriter: Top Methods To Find An Awesome Writer

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A new podcast examines the perils of intense meditation

Andrea Muraskin

Imagine it's a crisp clear winter day, and you're skiing down a mountain, feeling exhilarated. All of a sudden, you lose control of your skis. You're hurtling down towards the base of the slope, and all you can feel is abject terror.

That's how one young man explained his emotional state during an intensive meditation retreat. It was one of several troubling accounts reporter Madison Marriage heard while reporting Untold: The Retreat , a new investigative podcast series from the Financial Times and Goat Rodeo.

The four-episode series focuses on retreats held by the Goenka network, teaching a popular meditation technique called Vipassana. Participants follow a strict schedule, waking before dawn and meditating silently for 10 days, 10 hours per day. They eat just two vegan meals each day.

In Oregon, psilocybin treatment is an experiment in real time

Meditation and mindfulness have many known health benefits, including helping to process trauma and manage anxiety , improve eating habits, and ease chronic pain. While many participants say Goenka retreats changed their lives for the better, The Retreat tells the stories of individuals whose mental health deteriorated during a 10 day retreat – or for some, after several 10-day retreats.

Some spent time in psychiatric units, and two participants whose families spoke to Marriage, took their own lives.

If you or someone you know may be considering suicide or is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline .

Marriage interviewed nearly two dozen people who had attended Goenka retreats in different countries, including the U.K., the United States, France, India, and Australia. According to these former participants, retreat staff all over the world had a similar reaction when they were approached with mental health problems. "They're going to be telling you the same thing, which is keep meditating even if you're in severe emotional distress," she told NPR.

A global organization, the structure of the Goenka network is decentralized. The Financial Times reached out for comment to lead teachers at several Goenka centers, including the centers in Delaware and British Columbia where participants had died by suicide after exhibiting signs of psychological distress. But they declined to do an interview or answer specific questions on the record.

Author Interviews

In 'hidden valley road,' a family's journey helps shift the science of mental illness.

Bob Jeffs, director of one Goenka center near Merritt, British Columbia, told the producers of The Retreat in a written statement that his staff assess applicants before retreats and tries to dissuade people who are not ready: "Although the experience of hundreds of thousands of people who have successfully completed retreats since the early 1970's is overwhelmingly positive, these courses are not for everyone. We take the safety and well-being of every student in our care extremely seriously."

Untold: The Retreat is a podcast from The Financial Times and Goat Rodeo. The Financial Times hide caption

NPR contributor Andrea Muraskin spoke with Marriage about what her investigation uncovered about the mental health risks of meditation retreats.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Andrea Muraskin: What is Vipassana meditation and how is it taught at Goenka retreats?

Madison Marriage: Vipassana meditation is a type of meditation, which is ancient, its roots go back thousands of years... These retreats teach Vipassana meditation through the teachings of S. N. Goenka. And he's a kind of guru at the heart of this network, who founded the first meditation retreats back in the 1970s, and they've really proliferated.

Goenka's technique is that you spend a few days focusing on just one area of your body, and then it expands. And you have to shift your focus to different parts of your body. You wake up at 4 a.m., you start meditating at 4:30 a.m. You have a break at specific times, your day ends at 8, 9 p.m. And then in theory, you go to bed.

Muraskin: What did you discover about the Goenka retreats and mental health?

Mariage: I don't think many people associate the word meditation with anything negative. It sounds relaxing and something that you might do to help soothe yourself. And that's exactly the reason why a lot of people go off and do these retreats. They're looking for something that's going to help them to feel a bit more relaxed, a bit more calm, having a better headspace, that kind of thing.

I've now interviewed dozens of people who've done these retreats and have had the complete adverse reaction. It's almost like kind of jumping off a cliff in terms of their mental health. Some of these people have done two retreats or three retreats or ten retreats and really loved them. But there is a specific retreat where something in their mind clicks or breaks or snaps. Those are the kind of words that they've used.

Psychosis is really common. So [are] hallucinations, physical pain, like electrical zaps going up and down their bodies. In the first episode, [one young woman] describes it as being like stuck in a torture chamber for her mind.

The big one is terror, abject terror. I had one person email me this week saying, 'Thank you for making this podcast because I thought I was alone.' And he said that he would rather saw his own arm off than go back to that mental headspace.

One man in Britain ...was escorted out of a Goenka center in handcuffs by the police because he had to be sectioned at the local hospital and he wouldn't go voluntarily. There are people leaving these centers and heading to psychiatric units.

Muraskin: What did you learn about what's happening in the brains of people who have these adverse experiences with meditation?

Mariage: So we've interviewed several experts about what meditation does to the brain and one of the foremost experts we spoke to said it's a bit like a stimulant. So having lots of coffee or too much of any stimulants can end up having the opposite effect where instead of doing something good for you, it starts doing something bad, and it can begin to feel a little bit addictive. But there are limits to what the scientific community knows about the human brain and how and why it works in certain ways.

Muraskin: One of your interviewees told you she felt as if she had become addicted to meditation. There's no official diagnosis for meditation addiction in psychology. But did you speak to others who had experiences similar to addiction?

Mariage: Yes. Lots of people said that their first retreat or first several retreats really helped them and really brought them to quite an exciting spiritual plane. It almost sounds kind of mystical and godlike – you're on cloud nine mentally, and they come out and they feel calmer. They know how to process their thoughts better. Their life feels easier as a result. So they go to another. And they have kind of similar feelings, maybe not quite as intense.

And then the feeling starts to fade. So they do another retreat. And then a lot of people said that they ended up struggling to sleep. So they would meditate more because they had initially felt that meditation would help them to sleep because it had made them feel calmer at first. But effectively, they end up meditating through the night, all day, every day for weeks or months on end.

And then, I think maybe this comes back to your earlier question about impact on the brain – I would argue it's perhaps not meditation per se that is harming people's brains. A lot of the people I spoke to ended up having severe sleep deprivation. And it is clinically proven to be extremely bad for your brain not to sleep.

Muraskin: We've heard from several of our readers over time that they benefit from mindfulness and meditation. If somebody reading this interview becomes concerned, and thinks, I like my meditation practice, but should I be worried now, what would you say to someone like that?

Mariage: So the consensus from the psychologists and psychiatrists and academics I spoke to is that amounts of meditation up to half an hour a day on the whole is usually completely fine.

[The problem is] the extremity of this particular practice. Ten hours a day of meditating without any physical movement. You're sitting on the floor cross-legged with your eyes closed, meditating for 10 hours a day. You're put on a vegan diet. So for a lot of people that's far fewer calories, often at half of what they're usually used to. And there's no dinner. There's an element of sleep deprivation. And your sensory world is being massively diminished. And it's that which I think is driving people to quite extreme outcomes.

Muraskin: Do you think the psychological problems that came up during retreats could be explained by underlying mental health issues that the meditators had before they began meditating?

Mariage: I think that's a really difficult question because how can anyone know whether they have a mental health problem? You're meant to fill out a form before you go to one of these retreats and state whether or not you've ever had any kind of mental health issue or history of drug abuse. And if you've never had a mental health problem, you will of course say no and no, and in you go.

And I've spoken to people who say that they were completely stable prior to doing one of these retreats, had never had a mental or physical problem in their lives, and had never tried drugs, and they have gone in and they have emerged completely broken.

I actually think it's irrelevant whether or not somebody had a mental health issue beforehand, because the evidence that I've seen is that the particular format of these retreats can push people past their limits.

Muraskin: Based on your interviews with participants, is it difficult to leave a Goenka retreat early?

Mariage: Yes, it is difficult to leave a retreat early. [If you express the desire to], you're effectively gaslighted into staying.

You're told, oh, you might just be on the cusp of a breakthrough. The founder of this network died a decade ago, but it's still his voice and his teachings that are imparted at all of the retreat centers ...warning people that doing [this] practice is like undergoing surgery of the mind, and to leave halfway through is like walking out of an operation before you've been stitched up by the surgeon.

There was one man who said that every time he closed his eyes he could see streams of bubbles everywhere. And he didn't want to leave because he kind of wanted to fix that. and he thought, I might be stuck seeing streams of bubbles forevermore if I leave before the end of this.

At a lot of these centers you also hand in your keys and phone at the beginning, and that's quite an overt cue that you're here for the full period. You can of course go and ask someone and insist that you want them back, but several sources told me that when they expressed a desire to leave, they were pressured not to.

Muraskin: What did your sources –the meditators that experienced harm or their families – think needs to change to make these retreats safer?

Mariage: So first and foremost, warn people before they go in that mental health problems or kind of psychological distress is possible. It's a bit like putting warnings on bottles of medication that, you know, a tiny percentage of people with this prescription might have an adverse effect.

Secondly, they would like to see mental health practitioners on site. So rather than telling everybody to keep meditating, they need to be able to figure out better when somebody needs a bit more support and what that support should be.

Thirdly, they need proper emergency protocols. So for the two women who lost their lives after attending retreats, the horse had already bolted by the time their parents were contacted. I think it needs to be a lot more proactive in terms of reaching out to emergency contacts.

Muraskin: I can imagine you've received some pushback on the podcast from people who've really benefited from Vipassana retreats. What's your response to people who say you've painted the Goenka network too negatively?

Mariage: We've had a couple of emails from people who say this is really one-sided, you're not looking at the positive experiences at all, this has changed my life for the better.

But the podcast isn't about the people for whom this works.... The purpose is to scrutinize harm that is being done to people and to question why isn't the organization itself doing more to prevent that harm.

Andrea Muraskin is a contributor to NPR's Shots blog and writes the weekly NPR Health newsletter. She lives in Boston.

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More From Forbes

The real lesson from ben & jerry’s (it’s not ‘go woke and go broke’).

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Companies like Ben & Jerry’s stand for something more than just making money and are aligned with ... [+] consumers’ search for greater meaning. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Did the forces of “woke capitalism” just suffer a decisive defeat on the culture-war battlefield?

You could be forgiven for thinking so. Parent company Unilever recently announced plans to sell off Ben & Jerry’s, a company long known for its public stances on progressive social issues. Some news outlets and social media pointed to this as proof that companies with a social purpose make for bad business. The “go woke, go broke” memes have gotten renewed life, with many arguing that the ice cream brand’s overt support for the Palestinian cause, Black Lives Matter and Native American rights became too much of a reputational headache and financial drag for the U.K.-based consumer goods giant.

They’re wrong. First, because the facts of the situation show that Unilever’s decision had nothing to do with Ben & Jerry’s social activism, and everything to do with the future of its business. And second, because these commentators are missing the point of what it means to be a purpose-driven company and why that’s the critical driver for being a successful business today.

Recent culture-war flare-ups over companies “going woke” and suffering consumer boycotts have persuaded some CEOs that having a purpose beyond making money is a high-risk tactic and that it’s better to focus on business basics. But the evidence points elsewhere.

This Isn’t About Purpose. This Is About Ice Cream.

Unilever isn’t just selling Ben & Jerry’s; it’s spinning off its entire ice cream division. The company’s new CEO has come under intense pressure from activist investor Nelson Peltz to clean up its balance sheet and focus on growth. Ice cream is a notoriously low-margin business. It requires expensive ingredients like milk and fresh fruit. And selling ice cream is a seasonal business that demands a complex refrigerated supply chain. Compare that to other Unilever products like soap and detergent and mayo. Those products are comparatively easy to make and can sit on shelves for months or years. If the problem was Ben & Jerry’s, the company would be holding on to Wall’s, Cornetto and the rest of their ice cream equities. Only the woke kids would be getting dumped.

Purpose Actually Pays.

Ironically, Ben & Jerry’s bona fides as a purpose-driven company are actually a point in their favor. While many of us are looking for the trade-off between purpose and performance, the data indicates that purpose actually improves performance. Last year, my colleagues at Jump Associates completed a study that showed purpose-driven companies do far better than their peers. We found that over a twenty-year period, purpose-driven companies delivered market returns that were 3X their closest competitors and 5X the S&P 500. Ice cream may not pay, but being purpose-driven does.

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Moreover, a fundamental shift in consumer behavior actually puts Ben & Jerry’s on the right side of history. More and more, consumers aren’t just buying things. They’re buying into things. Companies like Ben & Jerry’s, Whole Foods Market and Starbucks that stand for something more than just making money are aligned with consumers’ search for greater meaning. People are shopping in line with their values, and sizable majorities of Americans are in favor of so-called “woke” causes like racial justice , gay and transgender rights , reproductive freedom and stricter gun control.

To be sure, companies risk running into damaging controversies if their internal values fall out of step with the values of their customers. Witness the consumer backlash last year over Bud Light’s hiring of a transgender influencer on Instagram. Their problem wasn’t about being woke. It was about not being customer-centered. For Bud Light drinkers, the move was a bridge too far.

A truly purpose-driven company doesn’t just jump on the latest social trend with performative campaigns. Its purpose is carefully aligned with the core values of its workforce, its customers and its partners. Think of how Patagonia has established itself as the company that puts the planet’s future ahead of profits, sending a crystal clear message about who should work for it, buy from it and partner with it. A purpose doesn’t have to lead a company into political firestorms or social controversy. It can be as simple and apolitical as Starbucks’ stated mission to “nurture the limitless possibilities of human connection.” It just has to be authentic.

Ben & Jerry’s is a truly purpose-driven company. And yes, it’s a progressive one. After all, the company is based in Vermont, the state represented by Bernie Sanders. It lives the values it promotes, winning a loyal following among the large tribe of consumers who share its views.

Ironically, the media’s attention on the spin-off is an indication of where real value resides. No headline said “Unilever spins off Magnum, Wall’s, Cornetto and its other ice cream brands.” They mentioned Ben & Jerry’s. That’s a sign that being purpose-driven matters.

The Real Lesson Is About Being Future Focused.

Spinning off Unilever’s ice cream business isn’t a referendum on being purpose-driven. It’s a referendum on being future-focused.

Some categories are on the right side of history: they’re in line with the way the world is moving. Others are swimming against the tide—and their leaders need to come up with a strategy that puts their company on the right side of history, both in terms of their values and the market they’re playing in.

Climate change will only become a more pressing issue. America will continue becoming a majority-minority nation. Healthier eating and the emergence of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic will mean shrinking demand for less nutritious, high-calorie foods. And AI will play an increasingly central role in our work and our lives.

Even if Ben & Jerry’s is on the right side of history with its social stances, it’s poorly positioned for the future. Why? Because it’s been playing in the wrong place for too long, swimming against the tide of health-conscious eating that threatens every ice cream maker and every snack food producer. You and I will probably eat more fresh food in the next few years. We probably won’t eat as much ice cream. That lack of a future-focused growth story is untenable when a company like Unilever is under pressure to grow.

Ben & Jerry’s should have jumped on the healthy eating trend years ago by leveraging its powerful, purpose-driven brand to break into categories like greek yogurt, nutritious snack bars and nut milks. That was admittedly hard to do when it was managed as part of an ice-cream business unit.

Giant conglomerates like Unilever often struggle to get the best out of purpose-driven companies and risk undermining their value as a result. Unilever is all about selling household products to a mass market, and it never figured out how to scale the quirky, socially noisy ice cream maker. This should be a cautionary tale for a company like Amazon, which has yet to convincingly show that it knows how to leverage the strengths of purpose-driven Whole Foods seven years after acquiring it.

Any savvy buyer should consider peeling off Ben & Jerry’s from the other ice cream businesses. And they should quickly explore opportunity spaces that help bring the company’s purpose to life in more health-focused categories.

For the rest of us, we’d be wise to not take away the wrong lesson from Unilever’s spinoff. Leaders at purpose-driven companies needn’t lose faith. The numbers are on their side. By drawing the wrong conclusion from culture-war flare-ups like these, other companies are leaving value on the table and strengthening the advantage of the few who understand that having an authentic purpose—while keeping an eye sharply focused on the future—is the most important strategic differentiator there is.

Dev Patnaik is the CEO of Jump Associates .

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The polar vortex above the Arctic has been spinning backwards for weeks. Here's why.

Atmospheric scientists were surprised earlier this month to notice that the Arctic's polar vortex reversed its trajectory as it began spinning in the opposite direction. What's more: It has yet to stop.

The change occurred around March 4 and is among the six strongest such events since 1979, Amy Butler , a climate scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), told Spaceweather.com .

The rotating mass of cold air that circles in the Arctic stratosphere is infamous for triggering extreme cold and storms in various regions, but fortunately that has not happened in this case, according to Butler, the author of  NOAA's new polar vortex blog . Instead, what Butler calls "Sudden Stratospheric Warming events" led to an increase of polar ozone from lower latitudes surrounding the Arctic, causing the swirling reversal.

"Atmospheric planetary waves have been breaking in the polar stratosphere, increasing its temperature," Butler told SpaceWeather.com. "Also, warming air helps prevent chemical ozone loss."

The so-called "ozone spike" is the biggest in the month of March since record-keeping began in 1979, the outlet reported.

What is a polar vortex?

The stratospheric polar vortex is a large-scale region of circulating winds that helps to confine cold air to the polar regions, according to NASA .

But when it weakens or is disturbed, that cold air can leak into lower latitudes and cause major weather events.

Residing high up in the stratosphere about 30 miles above Earth's surface, the vortex is most prominent during the winter. The winds spin at speeds of around 155 mph, according to the  U.K. Met Office , nearly matching the minimum wind speed for a Category 5 hurricane .

Disruptions to the polar vortex can cause severe weather in the U.S., such as in 2021 when Louisville, Kentucky saw "an abrupt end to the mostly tranquil weather the region had experienced for much of 2020," according to NOAA .

What caused the polar vortex reversal?

According to NOAA , the vortex has been noticeably active this winter.

The prevailing west-to-east "screaming-fast winds" circling the North Pole have completely reversed twice this year, the agency said in a March 20 blog post.

The culprit for the disruption lies on a sudden atmospheric warming caused by planetary waves that jostle the stratosphere from below and can reverse a vortex's flow, according to NOAA.

The disruptions can also have an effect on weather here in the U.S., such as the cold snap that the central region of the country experienced in January, NOAA said.

So how much longer should it last?

Butler told SpaceWeather.com that the winds are starting to slow down, meaning the ozone spike will subside and westerly winds will resume around the end of March.

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

Biden campaign launches ad targeting Haley voters

Democrats seek to lure republicans disenchanted with presumptive gop nominee donald trump.

President Biden’s reelection campaign launched a digital ad Friday aimed at supporters of Nikki Haley , who dropped out of the race for the Republican presidential nomination this month, part of a broader effort by Biden’s team to win over Republicans who may be disinclined to vote for Donald Trump .

The Biden campaign, which is spending more than $1 million on the ad across digital platforms, will run the spot for three weeks in battleground states, campaign officials said. It is part of a six-week, $30 million ad buy the campaign launched after the president’s March 7 State of the Union address.

The ad features clips of Trump denigrating Haley during campaign rallies and telling reporters that he does not need her supporters to win.

“If you voted for Nikki Haley, Donald Trump doesn’t want your vote,” the ad says. “Save America. Join us.”

Since Haley’s exit, the Biden campaign has regularly made overtures to her supporters and donors.

“Nikki Haley was willing to speak the truth about Trump: about the chaos that always follows him, about his inability to see right from wrong, about his cowering before Vladimir Putin,” Biden said in a statement when Haley ended her campaign. “Donald Trump made it clear he doesn’t want Nikki Haley’s supporters. I want to be clear: There is a place for them in my campaign.”

A Biden campaign official said Jeffrey Katzenberg and Rufus Gifford, who oversee fundraising for the president’s campaign, have held meetings with people in Haley’s orbit to try to recruit them. Biden allies are discussing a fundraiser specifically for Haley supporters in the coming weeks or months, said the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal strategy.

The new ad will run across digital platforms, including Meta, YouTube, connected TV and online video. The Biden campaign’s analytics department has used election results in specific states to find likely Haley voters. Using Zip codes where Haley overperformed against Trump relative to her statewide total, the campaign will target voters who are slightly older, college-educated and more suburban.

Haley has not yet endorsed a candidate in the presidential race. But toward the end of her campaign, she became increasingly critical of Trump , whose administration she worked in as ambassador to the United Nations. A spokesperson for Haley did not respond to a request for comment.

During the GOP primary campaign, Trump wrote on his social media platform that Haley supporters “will be permanently banned from the MAGA camp.” After Haley dropped out, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he wanted “to invite all of the Haley supporters to join the greatest movement in the history of our Nation.” But in subsequent comments, when asked how he would win over Haley voters, Trump said, “I’m not sure we need too many.”

In her speech exiting the race, Haley said Trump had to earn the votes of her supporters. People close to Haley said he has made no effort to do so.

“Donald Trump, my sister made a plea to you to reach out to her voters and her movement and you have not done that. Shame on you. You will need them,” Haley’s brother, Mitti Randhawa, wrote on X. “He hasn’t done that. What a pathetic piece of.”

Some Haley supporters said they are skeptical that Biden’s ad will move many of her voters, noting that most of them are Republicans whose policy views are much more in line with Trump’s outlook, even if they dislike his style.

“Tone is definitely one of the things that was important to Nikki voters, so I’d say that it’s a potential entree to them, but I mean — the problem Biden people have is that, if anything, they’re entering a general election turning to the left,” a Republican strategist close to Haley’s camp said.

The strategist cited Biden’s recent comments critical of the Israeli government’s conduct in the Gaza war and Vice President Harris’s visit to an abortion clinic as out of step with Haley supporters.

Neither campaign has directly reached out to Haley, according to someone close to her who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss private conversations.

Trump won commanding victories in most of the Republican primary contests, but Haley still won hundreds of thousands of voters across the battleground states. Those voters could be crucial, given that in 2020, Biden defeated Trump by only narrow margins in states such as Wisconsin, Georgia, Arizona and Nevada.

Interviews with Haley supporters when she was still in the race showed divisions over what to do if she exited, with some saying they would move to Trump, others planning to support Biden and the remainder likely to sit out the race. Those who said they would support Biden did not evince much enthusiasm for his campaign, often citing concerns about his age . Biden is 81, and Trump is 77.

“I’m Republican. I definitely don’t want Trump to be reelected. It’s scary what might happen if he gets four more years in office. I mean, I’d vote for Biden over Trump,” Thomas Brady, 68, a Haley supporter from Wheat Ridge, Colo., who voted for Trump in 2016 and 2020, said in an interview before Haley suspended her campaign. “But Biden — I don’t know. Maybe the Democrats should find another candidate.”

A February poll by Quinnipiac University found that 49 percent of Republican-leaning voters who supported Haley for the nomination said they would vote for Trump in November, while 37 percent would vote for Biden. The remainder said they would abstain, vote for someone else, or hadn’t yet decided what to do.

The new ad comes during a massive fundraising stretch for Biden, who has built a sizable financial advantage over Trump. On Thursday night, Biden was joined by former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton for a fundraiser at New York’s Radio City Music Hall, where they raised more than $25 million. At the end of February, Biden’s campaign had $155 million in the bank.

An earlier version of this article incorrectly said that Donald Trump won all of the Republican primaries in the 2024 presidential race. Nikki Haley won the Vermont and D.C. GOP primaries. The article has been corrected.

Election 2024

Get the latest news on the 2024 election from our reporters on the campaign trail and in Washington.

Who is running? President Biden and Donald Trump both secured their parties’ nominations for the presidency , formalizing a general-election rematch.

Key issues: Compare where the candidates stand on such issues as abortion, climate and the economy.

Key dates and events: From January to June, voters in all states and U.S. territories will pick their party’s nominee for president ahead of the summer conventions. Here are key dates and events on the 2024 election calendar .

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Jay Leno Signs $1B Deal with CBS for New Late Night Show Opposite Jimmy Kimmel?

"leno’s brand of humor, characterized by its accessibility and broad appeal, is seen as a key asset in this endeavor," esspots.com reported., jordan liles, published april 1, 2024.

About this rating

On March 30, 2024, the SpaceX Fanclub Facebook page posted  that Jay Leno – the former host of NBC's "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" – signed a deal with CBS worth $1 billion. The post received more than 46,000 likes and displayed an image reading, "Jay Leno Just Signed a $1 Billion Deal with CBS for a Late Night Show Opposite to Jimmy Kimmel's."

The first comment under the post contained a link to a March 4  article on the esspots.com website:

Breaking: CBS Signs a $1 Billion Deal With Jay Leno for a Late Night Show In a move that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, CBS has inked a groundbreaking $1 billion contract with Jay Leno, heralding the iconic comedian's return to the late-night television landscape. This bold decision not only underscores CBS's commitment to reclaiming its stake in the late-night ratings war but also signals a significant shift in the network's strategy, betting big on Leno's enduring appeal to viewers across generations.

However, the truth was this rumor originated on a website describing its content as satire. A  disclaimer  on esspots.com specified the website "specializes in satire, parody and humor" and said "we would like to emphasize that nothing on this website is real."

In fact, the SpaceX Fanclub Facebook page previously posted the same rumor with different wording earlier in March. Snopes reported on the rumor then, too.

As of April 2024, "The Late Show With Stephen Colbert" airs at 11:35 p.m. EDT on CBS. "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" is broadcast on ABC in the same time slot.

For background, here is why we sometimes write about satire/humor.

"Jimmy Kimmel Live! Video Clips." ABC , https://abc.com/shows/jimmy-kimmel-live/news/schedule.

Mikkelson, David. "Why We Include Humor and Satire in Snopes.Com." Snopes , 15 Aug. 2019, https://www.snopes.com//notes/why-we-include-humor-and-satire-in-snopes-com/.

"The Late Show with Stephen Colbert | About." Paramount Press Express , https://www.paramountpressexpress.com/cbs-entertainment/shows/the-late-show-with-stephen-colbert/about/.

By Jordan Liles

Jordan Liles is a Senior Reporter who has been with Snopes since 2016.

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The Polar Vortex Is Suddenly Swirling Backwards

That doesn't usually happen.

• The polar vortex rages in the arctic during the winter, producing winds up to 150 miles per hour. But when that vortex weakens, arctic air escapes to more southerly latitudes, which creates ultra-frigid conditions.
• According to NOAA, the polar vortex is currently spinning backwards due to atmospheric planetary waves creating a “sudden stratospheric warming” event.
• Spinning backwards isn’t entirely uncommon, and thankfully this clockwise rotation won’t send arctic winds across North America.

This large mass of cold air and low pressure usually spins around the arctic, ebbing and flowing throughout the seasons, getting strong in the winter, and fading away in the summer. Stretching some 30 miles into the stratosphere with winds that can reach up to 150 mph—about as fast as catastrophic hurricanes—this gargantuan, counterclockwise-spinning tornado of arctic air can have very real consequences for humans in northern latitudes.

That’s because when the vortex is strong and stable, it contains cold air to the arctic (which is, preferably, where you want it). But when the vortex weakens, that cold arctic air can escape into lower latitudes. That’s why the term “polar vortex” became particularly popular in the winter of 2014 during one of these intense cold snaps (though, these atmospheric dynamics have been around loooong before then).

So, if these are the extremes that can happen when a polar vortex strengthens and weakens, what happens when it reverses course entirely? Well, we may be finding out as we speak. According to a report by Spaceweather.com , National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) experts have confirmed that, since March 4th, the polar vortex has been flowing in the opposite direction—a weather phenomenon that isn’t as uncommon as you might think. In fact, in January, the polar vortex also reversed course briefly. However, this reversal has been particularly noteworthy.

“It was a substantial reversal, reaching -20.5 m/s a few days ago, which puts it in the top 6 strongest such events since 1979,” NOAA’s Amy Butler, the author of the agency’s Polar Vortex blog , told Spaceweather.com . “Atmospheric planetary waves have been breaking in the polar stratosphere, increasing its temperature … we call this a ‘Sudden Stratospheric Warming’ (SSW) event, and it can cause the vortex to change direction.”

First, some meteorology 101. Planetary waves, also known as atmospheric Rossby waves , occur when air arrives in an area of differing density, but is forced downward by the Earth’s spin. According to the National Weather Service , these waves break (not unlike ocean waves) on top of the polar vortex, which weakens its intensity. This leads to an SSW, as the stratosphere heats up as much as 90 degrees Fahrenheit in just a couple days . The current El Niño climate pattern can also lead to a weaker polar vortex as it changes the temperature of the Pacific ocean .

While a vortex reversal can bring cold weather, thankfully, this particular SSW isn’t going to wreak havoc on North America. However, it is speeding up the spread of ozone from the tropics to the poles. That’s creating an increase of ozone in the arctic region, which Live Science explains is a sort of reverse ozone hole. While vortex reversals can last anywhere from a few days to months, Butler states that winds will likely begin blowing westerly in 10 days, and ozone levels will subsequently return to normal.

Just in time for the vortex to slowly fade away amidst the Sun’s summer rays. But don’t breathe easy—the vortex will return.

Darren lives in Portland, has a cat, and writes/edits about sci-fi and how our world works. You can find his previous stuff at Gizmodo and Paste if you look hard enough. 

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Griff Explains Why Her Songwriting Style Is 'Weirdly' the Opposite of Taylor Swift's (Exclusive)

The British rising star tells PEOPLE about her new 'Ver2igo Vol. 2' EP, switching up her signature hairstyle and overcoming writer's block on tour

Courtesy of Warner Records

Griff is balancing hardships with career heights.

Fresh off a headlining world tour that followed her 2023 stint opening for Coldplay , the British singer-songwriter released her new EP, Ver2igo Vol. 2, on Friday, April 5, marking the next chapter of her current era — eventually set to culminate in her debut full-length album.

Since breaking through with her One Foot in Front of the Other mixtape in 2021, the 23-year-old rising star has earned a BRIT Award as well as Taylor Swift 's stamp of approval and songwriting advice from Chris Martin .

While experiencing such highs in her professional life, however, Griff's also faced personal lows, from soul-crushing heartbreak to periods of writer's block — all of which inspired the four tracks on Ver2igo Vol. 2 .

Griff (born Sarah Faith Griffiths) recently sat down with PEOPLE to discuss her latest project, why her songwriting style differs from Swift's and the recent decision to switch up her signature "bubble braid" hairstyle.

You previously said Vert1go Vol. 1 was "fragile and heartbroken and insular" installment of this project. How would you describe Vol. 2 ?

I would say it's still desperately heartbroken, but I think sonically, there's something uplifting and driven about it, and I'd say there's a new layer of euphoria in this one.

Is that reflective of the stages of heartbreak you've personally experienced?

I think so. It's a natural cycle of life, I think, whether it's heartbreak or just growing up. There are really low moments at the start, and then at some point you have to figure out your confidence and your place in all of it. That's probably what's happened over the last couple of years, and that's why the music goes in this arc.

Gareth Cattermole/Getty

When did you go through the heartbreak that inspired these tracks?

I don't really write songs about a specific — well, actually sometimes I do… I always try to write in a sense that I can listen and think about family, friendships, or romance. I don't think I've ever been one to specifically write about the actual detail, date, shade, taste and smell. To me, it's an overall feeling of, I don't know... there's something in growing up where you just go through a real rediscovery of yourself, and there's a lot of life blocks that happen. I think that's more what these songs are about.

Your approach is almost the opposite of Taylor Swift's ultra-specific songwriting.

Weirdly, yeah. I don't know why. I guess growing up, I never got used to writing those songs, because I would listen to Taylor, but I was too young to have really experienced some of those things. I think I developed a style of writing that was more, I guess, open for people to be able to interpret.

This series of EPs will eventually culminate in a full-length project. Were all the songs written in the same wave of songwriting, or did you write each volume separately?

No, it wasn't as tidy a process as that. In between all of my touring, I'd get back to the U.K., and I'm a bedroom producer, I guess, so I'd pack up all of my equipment, put it in my car and then go to a random Airbnb that had a piano in it and try to write. I did that maybe eight times, and I had about 100 songs in a Dropbox folder. It’s only in hindsight that I've now been trying to pick the ones I want to finish and hearing that they sit in different worlds slightly. They all have this common theme, but the feelings are all slightly different. And so that's what I've been figuring out. But the process has been almost upside down and a bit sporadic.

You've been on tour almost constantly since releasing your breakthrough mixtape, One Foot in Front of the Other , in 2021. It doesn't seem easy for you to write on the road.

I found it really difficult, to be honest. I realized that I don't write well under pressure. The mixtape was written in COVID, and I just had a lot of time with my own thoughts, and then suddenly being on tour, you're almost never alone, and you're not in any creative head space. You see those videos of Ed Sheeran , where he writes “Shape of You” in 15 minutes on a tour bus, and I'm like, "This is going to be me on tour. It's going to be amazing." It wasn't the case.

I actually had really, really bad writer's block. That's why I had to be so drastic when I came back to the U.K., where it's like, I need to almost trick my brain into a low-pressure environment. There wasn't any point of the label hiring out big, fancy studios where there's a chef and a big mixing desk because I think that would just cripple me. I just needed to be in a really s---ty cottage making myself breakfast, sitting down at the piano and just figuring out these songs. So, I definitely found the touring process hard.

Matthew Baker/Getty

You've said that while on tour with Coldplay, you played 30 songs for Chris Martin. I know you co-wrote "Astronaut" together, but did you get advice from him for any songs on either volume of Vertigo ?

Yeah, I played them pretty much most of it. He was so helpful. He has got such a good ear for things, and it was just nice playing music to someone who just knows exactly what I'm talking about, obviously. Also, fresh ears on something is so valuable with anything. When you're making something or in any creative process, you've either seen, heard or read it a lot of times, and so you lose sight of what makes sense, what chorus is good and what melody should go again. He gave me a lot of advice, like, "That one's great. You should do that bit again. That makes your chorus."

It was a really fun evening to sit with him because I got to a place with all of the songs where I was like, "I don't know if any of this is good" — genuinely. That's not any fake humility or anything, I was genuinely like, "I don't know what I'm doing here." It came at a time where he was suddenly like, "Just stay on the path and keep working on it. It's going to be great."

Since breaking through with singles like "Black Hole," do you feel like you've been able to take in the big moments — touring with massive artists, winning a BRIT Award — as they've come?

I don't think I have, but maybe that's also intentional, again, with the whole pressure thing. The more I think about it, the more crippling it gets. Whereas, if I just let the BRITs and “Black Hole” and everything since then just be another day in the life, it helps me just carry on in a way that I can digest. Otherwise, it all gets a bit too overwhelming for me.

Dave Benett/Getty

One big difference in your approach to the mixtape and these EPs is your hair. The "bubble braid" became your signature look, and now you're sporting a forehead swirl. How did you decide to switch up the hair?

I don't know. I haven't said goodbye to the bubble braid forever, to be honest. I think the bubble braid became a really useful thing, just firstly, for people to be able to recognize me, and also to turn up to set and know exactly what my hair's going to look like. It's just one less thing to think about. And especially with having Afro hair, it was just a protective hairstyle that worked. With this season, the spiral has been a real symbol for this whole era. So, it's just fun to incorporate it into different things — that's the thinking behind all of the different hair choices. But I enjoy playing with all of it.

Does the spiral hold significance in this era?

Definitely, yeah. I feel like it sums up the feeling of the whole project. And even starting with “Vertigo,” the idea of things spinning and being out of balance. I think “Vertigo,” to me, resonates in an emotional sense and the idea of heartbreak feeling like emotional vertigo, this spiraling feeling. I think it encapsulates what the album is about, for sure.

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