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

Since Socrates, dialectical thinking had been a method of eliciting truth through questioning and refutation. — Alex Ross, New Yorker, 15 June 2026

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

Word History

Etymology

see dialectic entry 1

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing dialectical

• dialectical materialism

Rhymes for dialectical

• spectacle