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agon

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈæɡən/

KK: /ˈæɡən/

noun
Definition

A struggle or conflict, often seen in stories or plays, where characters face off against each other, or a competition in ancient Greece where people competed in sports or arts for prizes.


Example

The agon in the play highlighted the intense rivalry between the two main characters.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of the term agon in literature?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's interesting how it describes the conflict in stories.
Sloth A
Right? It really adds depth to the characters' struggles.
Sloth B
Definitely! The agon makes the plot much more engaging.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
conflict
contest
struggle
Antonyms
harmony
peace
agreement
Root Explanation

Agon comes from the Greek word "ἀγών" (agōn), meaning a contest or struggle. It refers to a competition or conflict, often in the context of athletic or artistic competitions in ancient Greece.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for contest or struggle, 'agon', to remember that it refers to a competition or conflict.

Visually Confused Words
wagon
argon
gon
ago
sagoin
saggon
rhagon
lagoon
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