dichotomy

noun

dī-ˈkä-tə-mē How to pronounce dichotomy (audio)
Definition of dichotomynext
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

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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 The Tour is both globally popular and hyper-local and Prudhomme embodies this dichotomy. — Andy McGrath, New York Times, 11 July 2026 The dichotomy of 007, suited and booted in one moment and throwing himself into danger the next, requires shape-shifting abilities, something that is naturally applicable to the clever casting of an unknown actor. — Emily Maskell, IndieWire, 10 July 2026 This kind of relationship made the lives of people living in ancient times unproblematic in terms of the dichotomy between the transcendent and the space of reality. — Merve Emre, New Yorker, 28 June 2026 The Street loves the latter model, the public loves the former, and is oblivious to the dichotomy. — Jim Cramer, CNBC, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for dichotomy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dichotomy
paradox
Noun
  • The series explored the moral paradox of AI adoption, what individuals must become, what organizations must become and how to implement the transformation through the R7 Framework.
    — Manu Khetan, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
  • But Raman's fractured relationship with the DSA has become the defining paradox of her candidacy here in LA.
    — Maxwell Adler, Vanity Fair, 29 July 2026
Definition of paradox

Browse Nearby Words

dichotomizing
dichotomy
dichromatic
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Cite this Entry

“Dichotomy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dichotomy. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on dichotomy

Nglish: Translation of dichotomy for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about dichotomy

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