antagonistic relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "antagonistic relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship characterized by hostility or opposition between two parties, individuals, or groups. Example: "The antagonistic relationship between the two rival companies has led to a fierce competition in the market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

In public, the two men had an antagonistic relationship.

The Guardian

Another is its antagonistic relationship with the facts of history.

The New Yorker

This is a bold strategy, not least because Moore has a famously antagonistic relationship with DC.

The Guardian

In the process, however, he developed a bitterly antagonistic relationship with the company.

The New Yorker

Detective Edwards attributed the poisoning to "an antagonistic relationship" between the heating and cooling systems.

The New York Times

We are heavily invested in Spock and his fascinatingly tense, prickly, and sometimes antagonistic relationship with Kirk.

The Guardian - Film

Mr. Chávez has nurtured an antagonistic relationship with the United States.

The New York Times

"It wasn't theoretical enough," he explains, still rankling over his antagonistic relationship with Harvard.

The Economist

Union leaders say an antagonistic relationship simply does not benefit either side anymore.

The New York Times

In one particularly hostile press conference, in 1973, Richard Nixon was asked about his antagonistic relationship with reporters.

The New Yorker

Williams has an antagonistic relationship with the clichés of American consumerism; he likes to play with them, take them apart.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation involving conflict, use "antagonistic relationship" to clearly convey a sense of active opposition and hostility between the involved parties. For example, "The two countries have an antagonistic relationship due to long-standing territorial disputes".

Common error

Avoid using "antagonistic relationship" when simply describing a disagreement or difference of opinion. This phrase implies a deeper, more hostile and sustained opposition. Opt for milder terms like "difference in opinion" or "disagreement" if the situation is not overtly hostile.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "antagonistic relationship" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes a specific type of connection or interaction between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct. It indicates a state of active opposition, hostility, or conflict.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "antagonistic relationship" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a state of active opposition or hostility between entities. As Ludwig AI shows, it is widely used in News & Media and Science, appearing less often in business or academic settings. When using the phrase, ensure the situation truly reflects active conflict and not just a simple disagreement. Consider alternatives like "hostile relationship" or "adversarial relationship" depending on the context. This phrase effectively highlights significant friction and opposition between the involved parties.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hostile connection

Emphasizes animosity and unfriendliness.

adversarial dynamic

Highlights the competitive and conflicting nature.

contentious rapport

Focuses on the disagreement and argumentativeness.

conflicting association

Suggests incompatibility and opposition.

discordant alliance

Implies a lack of harmony and agreement.

fractious interaction

Highlights irritability and quarrelsomeness.

strained relations

Underscores tension and discomfort.

bitter rivalry

Emphasizes intense competition and animosity.

combative interaction

Highlights the aggressive and confrontational aspect.

clashing interests

Focuses on the opposing goals and desires.

FAQs

How can I use "antagonistic relationship" in a sentence?

You can use "antagonistic relationship" to describe situations where two or more parties are in active opposition or hostility. For example: "The two political parties have an antagonistic relationship".

What are some alternatives to "antagonistic relationship"?

Depending on the context, you could use "hostile relationship", "adversarial relationship", or "conflicting relationship".

Is "antagonistic relationship" formal or informal?

"Antagonistic relationship" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it is often used in more analytical or descriptive writing.

What's the difference between "antagonistic relationship" and "difficult relationship"?

"Antagonistic relationship" implies active opposition and hostility, while "difficult relationship" simply suggests challenges and problems without necessarily implying active conflict.