The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

antagonistic

IPA:

Dictionary definition of antagonistic

Characterized by hostility, opposition, or a tendency to provoke conflict.
"The manager's antagonistic attitude towards feedback created a barrier to open communication."

Detailed meaning of antagonistic

When applied to individuals or groups, it suggests a combative or confrontational nature, marked by a desire to challenge or undermine others. Secondly, "antagonistic" can refer to the antagonism or opposition of one substance or agent towards another. In this sense, it implies a counteractive or inhibitory relationship, where one element hinders or interferes with the actions or effects of another. Additionally, "antagonistic" can be used to describe conflicting or opposing forces, ideas, or interests that create tension or discord. It indicates a lack of harmony or agreement between different entities or perspectives. Overall, "antagonistic" conveys the ideas of hostility, opposition, counteraction, and conflict in various contexts.

Example sentences containing antagonistic

1. The two rival teams engaged in an antagonistic rivalry, fueling intense competition.
2. The antagonistic remarks from the politician sparked a heated debate among the audience.
3. The protagonist faced numerous antagonistic forces throughout the story, testing their resolve.
4. The antagonistic behavior of the customer created a tense atmosphere in the store.
5. The board meeting turned antagonistic as differing opinions clashed.
6. The antagonistic relationship between the siblings was evident in their constant arguments.

History and etymology of antagonistic

The adjective 'antagonistic' has its etymological roots in the Greek word 'antagonistes,' which combines 'anti-' (meaning 'against') and 'agonistes' (meaning 'competitor' or 'opponent'). Therefore, 'antagonistic' etymologically conveys the idea of being characterized by hostility, opposition, or a tendency to provoke conflict. It describes a disposition or behavior that is confrontational and opposed to others, often engendering discord or friction. The term 'antagonistic' reflects the underlying sense of rivalry or opposition that is inherent in the concept, making it a fitting word to describe situations or individuals marked by a spirit of conflict or contention.

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Further usage examples of antagonistic

1. The antagonistic attitude of the boss created a toxic work environment.
2. The movie portrayed an antagonistic character who constantly tried to undermine the hero.
3. The teacher addressed the antagonistic student's disruptive behavior in a calm and assertive manner.
4. The antagonistic nature of the online forum led to frequent conflicts and arguments.
5. The new neighbor's antagonistic demeanor made it difficult for others to establish friendly relationships.
6. The antagonistic comments on social media escalated into a full-blown online feud.
7. His antagonistic remarks during the meeting only fueled the tension.
8. The antagonistic relationship between the two nations escalated.
9. She adopted an antagonistic stance toward her rival.
10. The boss's antagonistic behavior demoralized the team.
11. Their antagonistic attitudes hindered productive collaboration.
12. The debate turned antagonistic as tempers flared.
13. He wore an antagonistic expression throughout the discussion.
14. The antagonistic tone of the email offended many recipients.
15. The siblings had an antagonistic rivalry since childhood.
16. The candidate's antagonistic remarks alienated voters.
17. The teacher tried to diffuse the antagonistic atmosphere in class.
18. The court case became increasingly antagonistic.
19. The coach's antagonistic coaching style drove players away.
20. Her antagonistic critique of the project upset the team.
21. The board members had an antagonistic disagreement.
22. Their antagonistic exchange of words ended in a heated argument.
23. The neighbors had an antagonistic dispute over property lines.
24. The antagonistic response to the proposal was unexpected.
25. The employee's antagonistic behavior led to disciplinary action.
26. The antagonistic comments on the forum derailed the discussion.