Motsetning

Motsetning is a Norwegian noun that describes the relation between two elements that are opposite, in conflict, or in contrast with each other. The term is used across linguistics, logic, philosophy, and everyday language to express how two propositions, concepts, or objects stand in opposition.

Etymology and sense. The word combines mot- meaning against and setning meaning statement or proposition, conveying an idea of a claim that stands in opposition to another. In everyday use, motsetning often refers to opposite meanings or attributes, while in formal contexts it can denote a logical contradiction or a strong contrast between ideas.

Uses in language and thought. In linguistics, motsetning is related to semantic opposition, including antonyms and other forms of contrast between words and meanings. In rhetoric, it is a device to highlight differences by juxtaposition. In logic and philosophy, motsetning can describe a contradiction between statements or propositions, where one is true only if the other is false. In anthropology and cultural studies, it can be used to analyze contrasts such as us/vs/them, autonomy/dependence, or tradition/modernity.

Examples. Common contrasts include light and dark, warm and cold, day and night, truth and lie. More complex contrasts appear in arguments and analyses, such as freedom versus security or individual rights versus collective good.

Related terms. Related concepts include kontrast (contrast) and motsats (opposite), as well as specific linguistic terms like antonym. Understanding motsetning involves recognizing how opposing forces or ideas shape interpretation, meaning, and reasoning.