as in paradox
someone or something with qualities or features that seem to conflict with one another her outfit is a sartorial dichotomy: an elegant gown and ratty old tennis shoes

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of dichotomy This dichotomy underpins the political strategy: shrink the department while wielding federal dollars as carrots and sticks to influence education outcomes. Shahar Ziv, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025 Dugin sees a dichotomy between liberalism and its enemies that goes back to antiquity. Arash Azizi, The Atlantic, 19 Mar. 2025 The director sought to develop that sharp dichotomy and turn a lens on the stark differences between a bustling urban life and the slow comforts and calamities of home. Holly Jones, Variety, 17 Mar. 2025 Lower spoke with Variety about the pivotal episode, from the powerful moment that Helly reclaims her body to the complex dichotomy between her innie and outie characters. Katcy Stephan, Variety, 21 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dichotomy

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dichotomy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dichotomy. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on dichotomy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!