Definition
A division or contrast between two things that are or are represented as being opposed or entirely different
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Noun
Synonyms
Division, separation, contrast, duality, polarity, split
Antonyms
Unity, synthesis, combination, merger
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | dichotomizations, dichotomization, dichotomies, dichotomy |
| Verb | dichotomizes, dichotomizing, dichotomized, dichotomize |
| Adjective | dichotomous |
| Adverb | dichotomously |
Example Sentences
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The dichotomy between the rich and the poor is a persistent problem in many societies.
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The dichotomy between nature and technology became increasingly apparent as urban landscapes expanded, with towering skyscrapers and concrete jungles encroaching upon pristine landscapes, raising profound questions about the delicate balance between human progress and the preservation of the natural world.
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Caught in the intricate web of emotions, she found herself torn by the dichotomy between love and duty, as her heart yearned for the embrace of passion while her mind grappled with the weight of responsibility and the moral dilemma it presented.
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The author examines the dichotomy between good and evil in his new novel, exploring the complexities of human nature and the blurred lines between the two opposing concepts.
Usage
“Dichotomy” is a noun that refers to a division or contrast between two things that are completely different from each other. The word comes from the Greek “dikhotomia,” which means “cutting in two.” The prefix “di-” means “two,” and the suffix “-tomy” means “cutting.”
The word “dichotomy” is often used to describe a contrast or division between two opposing ideas or concepts. For example, there is often a dichotomy between good and evil, right and wrong, or freedom and oppression. It can also be used to describe a division between two different groups or types of people or things, such as a dichotomy between urban and rural areas, or a dichotomy between traditional and modern values.
One common usage of “dichotomy” is in the field of philosophy, where it is used to describe the division between two opposing concepts or ideas. For example, the dichotomy between mind and body, or between rationality and emotion, has been the subject of much philosophical debate throughout history.
In addition to its philosophical usage, “dichotomy” is also commonly used in scientific or technical fields to describe the division between two opposing or contrasting ideas or concepts. For example, in biology, there is a dichotomy between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, while in linguistics, there is a dichotomy between phonetics and phonology.
Overall, “dichotomy” is a versatile and widely used term that can be applied to many different areas of study and discussion. Its root, prefix, and suffix all help to convey the idea of a division or contrast between two distinct entities, and its usage can help to clarify and explain complex ideas and concepts.