Synonyms of antithetical

antithetical

adjective

ˌan-tə-ˈthe-ti-kəl 

as in contradictory

being as different as possible

spiritual concerns and ideals that are antithetical to the materialism embraced by modern society

Synonyms & Similar Words

• contradictory
• contrary
• opposite
• unfavorable
• diametrical
• diametric
• polar
• hostile
• negative
• antipodal
• antagonistic
• adverse
• divergent
• antipodean
• unlike
• counter
• dissimilar
• cross
• disparate
• reverse
• antipathetic
• inverse
• alien
• converse
• unalike
• obverse

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• similar
• analogous
• like
• same
• noncontradictory
• identical
• equivalent
• alike
• synonymous

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective antithetical differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of antithetical are contradictory, contrary, and opposite. While all these words mean "being so far apart as to be or seem irreconcilable," antithetical stresses clear and unequivocal diametrical opposition.

a law that is antithetical to the very idea of democracy

When can contradictory be used instead of antithetical?

While in some cases nearly identical to antithetical, contradictory applies to two things that completely negate each other so that if one is true or valid the other must be untrue or invalid.

made contradictory predictions about whether the market would rise or fall

When might contrary be a better fit than antithetical?

While the synonyms contrary and antithetical are close in meaning, contrary implies extreme divergence or diametrical opposition.

contrary assessments of the war situation

In what contexts can opposite take the place of antithetical?

The meanings of opposite and antithetical largely overlap; however, opposite applies to things in sharp contrast or in conflict.

opposite views on foreign aid

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of antithetical

And subcultures were visually distinct and culturally antithetical. —Kian Bakhtiari, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025

As a result, each voter does not have the same opportunity to influence the outcome of an election, which is antithetical to equal protection. —Erwin Chemerinsky, Twin Cities, 14 Aug. 2025

David Butorac, Wilton Manors The fact that our tax dollars are now being used to remove rainbow crosswalks is antithetical to the administration’s rationale that taxpayer money should only be used for road work and safety. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 24 July 2025

Sheridan certainly doesn’t participate in Emmy politicking — the very idea seems antithetical to his nature. —James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 15 July 2025

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