Definition

A person who divides things into two distinct and often opposing categories or groups.

Example

As a dichotomist, she often viewed issues in black and white, without considering the gray areas in between.

Conversation

I was reading about this concept of being a dichotomist in philosophy.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It refers to someone who divides things into two opposite groups.

That makes sense; I guess we all have a bit of a dichotomist mindset sometimes!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dichotomist → It is formed from "dicho-" (from Greek "dichotomos", meaning cut in two) and "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). A dichotomist is someone who divides or categorizes things into two distinct parts or groups.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'cuts' ('dicho-') ideas into two clear categories — that's what a dichotomist does.

Visually Confused Words