antagonize

Antagonize is a transitive verb with several related senses. The primary meaning is to deliberately provoke hostility or opposition in others, by behavior or speech, or to arouse antagonism in a person or group. It can also describe actions that counteract or hinder a process or relationship, thereby reducing cooperation or trust. In pharmacology and physiology, to antagonize a receptor or effect means to block or oppose the action of a substance or another molecule. In politics or diplomacy, to antagonize a rival means to increase hostility or deepen divisions.

Etymology and related forms play a role in understanding the term. Antagonize derives from the noun antagonist and ultimately from Greek anti- “against” and agōn “contest,” via Latin antagonista and French antagoniste. The common use in everyday language shares the same core sense of opposition or conflict, whether interpersonal, procedural, or conceptual.

Usage and nuance. Antagonize often carries a negative connotation, implying intentional provocation or escalation. It can describe both social behavior and strategic choices that alienate others. In scientific contexts, the term has a precise meaning: an antagonist blocks or counteracts the effect of another substance, such as a receptor blocker in pharmacology. Related forms include antagonistic (adjective), antagonism (noun), and the noun antagonist. Common near-synonyms include provoke, irritate, offend, or alienate, while antonyms include appease and pacify.

Examples illustrate the range of use. “His remarks seemed designed to antagonize the audience.” “The policy could antagonize several voting blocs.” “The drug antagonizes the receptor, reducing its response.” “She avoided antagonizing her coworkers by choosing a neutral, cooperative approach.”

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