What does "antithesis" mean?

The term "antithesis" is derived from Greek and literally means "opposite." It refers to a rhetorical device or literary technique in which contrasting ideas are presented in a balanced manner. Specifically, it signifies a relationship in which two ideas or concepts stand in direct opposition to each other. This relationship highlights differences and can be used to create a more nuanced understanding of the topics at hand.

For instance, if one were to discuss concepts like light and dark, good and evil, or love and hate, these pairs illustrate antitheses because they embody fundamental opposites. By using antithesis effectively, writers can emphasize contrasts, enhancing the impact of their arguments or narratives. This direct opposition is what makes "exact opposite" the correct definition of "antithesis."