antagonize — To actively oppose or provoke someone, causing hostility or resentment. To act in a way that makes someone angry or unfriendly.
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: To actively oppose or provoke someone, causing hostility or resentment. To act in a way that makes someone angry or unfriendly.
Pronunciation (IPA): /ænˈtæɡəˌnaɪz/
Example Sentences
- The teacher's sarcastic comments only served to antagonize the already frustrated students.
- Why would you antagonize your mother-in-law right before she decides on your inheritance?
- The politician's inflammatory speech managed to antagonize both his supporters and his opponents.
antagonize
VERB[/ænˈtæɡəˌnaɪz/]
To actively oppose or provoke someone, causing hostility or resentment. To act in a way that makes someone angry or unfriendly.
To actively oppose or provoke someone, causing hostility or resentment. To act in a way that makes someone angry or unfriendly.
The more you try to organize, the more they agonize!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Greek 'antagonistes' meaning 'opponent' or 'rival.' In ancient Greek theater, the antagonist was the character who opposed the protagonist (main character).
Breakdown
anti- (against) + agon (contest/struggle) + -ize (verb suffix meaning 'to make or cause')
🎵Rhyme
📝Examples
“The teacher's sarcastic comments only served to antagonize the already frustrated students.”
“Why would you antagonize your mother-in-law right before she decides on your inheritance?”
“The politician's inflammatory speech managed to antagonize both his supporters and his opponents.”
“My cat seems to deliberately antagonize the dog by sitting in his favorite spot.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.