gegensätzlich

Gegensätzlich is a German adjective meaning opposite, contrary, or in opposition. It is used to describe things that stand in clear contrast to each other in nature, direction, tendency, or properties. The term can apply to opinions, positions, ideas, or physical forces, as well as to characteristics that are mutually incompatible.

The word is formed from the prefix gegen- “against” and a suffix that signals an inherent contrast. In usage, gegensätzlich often conveys a strong sense of contrast or conflict between two elements, especially in abstract or conceptual contexts. It is commonly chosen when the emphasis is on opposition rather than merely difference.

Usage notes and contrasts: Gegensätzlich is frequently paired with nouns such as gegensätzliche Eigenschaften, gegensätzliche Ansichten, gegensätzliche Pole or gegensätzliche Tendenzen. It can describe mutually incompatible statements or positions, and is often used in discussions of philosophy, logic, or theory to denote contraries. The term entgegengesetzt also means opposite, but it can carry a slightly different nuance, sometimes focusing more on direct opposition or contrariness in a concrete sense.

Declension and examples: As an adjective, gegensätzlich takes standard adjective endings: ein gegensätzlicher Standpunkt, zwei gegensätzliche Meinungen, das gegensätzliche Verhalten. Adverbially, one may encounter phrases like gegensätzlich zueinander wirken, to describe opposing forces acting against one another.

Overall, gegensätzlich is a versatile term for describing clear, oppositional contrasts in language, thought, and phenomena.