Definition

A situation where there is hostility or active opposition between people or groups.

Example

The antagonism between the two rival teams was evident during the match.

Conversation

Have you noticed the antagonism between those two teams lately?

Yeah, it's pretty intense, especially during the games.

I wonder if it makes the matches more exciting or just stressful for the players.

Probably a bit of both, but it definitely keeps us entertained!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Antagonism is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "agon" (from Greek "agōn", meaning contest or struggle). The word describes a state of opposition or conflict, particularly in a competitive context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'against' ('anti-') in a 'contest' ('agon') — that's why antagonism means being in opposition or conflict.

Visually Confused Words