Antonymously

Antonymously is an adverb that denotes doing something in an antonymous or opposite manner. It relates to antonyms, the words that have opposite meanings, and can be used to describe how terms, ideas, or arguments are presented in contrast to one another.

Etymology and form: The term is built from the noun antonym (opposite word) and the adverbial suffix -ly, yielding antonymously. It can also be described as derived from a (less common) adjective such as antonymous. Because it is relatively rare, the word is not widely found in everyday usage or in all standard dictionaries; writers who want to emphasize opposite meanings frequently opt for alternatives such as oppositely, in contrast, or antithetically.

Usage and notes: In linguistic or literary contexts, antonymously may be used to indicate that two elements are presented as opposites or contrasts. For example, one might say that two descriptions are presented antonymously in a passage, highlighting opposing qualities. In general prose, however, the term is uncommon, and writers often achieve the same effect with more familiar phrases like in contrast or opposite terms.

Related terms and alternatives: antonym, antonymy, antonymous, antonymically, and oppositely are commonly used related forms. When clarity or accessibility is a goal, choosing antonymically, oppositely, or in contrast is usually preferable to antonymously.

See also: antonym, antonymy, antonymous, opposties, contrast, antithesis.