dialectical

adjective

di·​a·​lec·​ti·​cal ˌdī-ə-ˈlek-ti-kəl 

variants or less commonly dialectic

ˌdī-ə-ˈlek-tik 

1

philosophy

a

: of, relating to, or in accordance with dialectic

dialectical method

dialectical reasoning

b

: practicing, devoted to, or employing dialectic

a dialectical philosopher

2

linguistics : of, relating to, or characteristic of a dialect

dialectically

ˌdī-ə-ˈlek-ti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of dialectical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Firpi concluded that Saenz should receive dialectical behavioral therapy, or DBT, an intensive therapy originally developed for self-harming women with borderline personality disorder that is now also used to treat PTSD, eating disorders and substance use. —Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 4 June 2026

Studies have demonstrated the capability of AI to engage in dialectical exchanges, produce coherent philosophical prose, compare ethical theories, and perform abstract reasoning. —Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026

In general, the dialectical view is specific to all the emergent constructivist approaches. —Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 12 May 2026

In Fiduccia’s perceptive reading, binaries such as abstraction and likeness, form and formlessness, seriality and singularity, take on dialectical tension and interrelation. —Ara H. Merjian, ARTnews.com, 16 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see dialectic

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing dialectical

• dialectical materialism

Rhymes for dialectical

• spectacle