dichotomy

noun

dī-ˈkä-tə-mē How to pronounce dichotomy (audio)
Definition of dichotomynext
as in paradox
someone or something with qualities or features that seem to conflict with one another her outfit is a sartorial dichotomy: an elegant gown and ratty old tennis shoes

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of dichotomy The duo riffs off this dichotomy with the alarming imagery that accompanies The Precariat, taking listeners on a journey through the underbelly of America. — Selena Fragassi, SPIN, 5 Aug. 2026 But the dichotomy of experiences in one cafeteria is not lost on her. — Natasha Chen, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2026 But the Velvets were sneering at the false dichotomy between those things back in the ’60s. — Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 30 July 2026 The dichotomy exists then and now, which is why Plath’s work has longevity, and tarot is still a powerful form of divination because both speak to the soul. — Literary Hub, 24 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for dichotomy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dichotomy
paradox
Noun
  • Parton, who moved to Nashville in 1964, was immediately confronted with this paradox.
    — Marissa R. Moss, Rolling Stone, 2 Sep. 2026
  • This tension is known as the automation paradox, in which increasingly capable automation gives human operators less practice, while leaving them only the most difficult situations.
    — IEEE Spectrum, IEEE Spectrum, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of paradox

Browse Nearby Words

dichotomizing
dichotomy
dichromatic
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Cite this Entry

“Dichotomy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dichotomy. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on dichotomy

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about dichotomy

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