antagonize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "antagonize" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing actions that provoke hostility or opposition in someone. Example: "His constant teasing began to antagonize his classmates, leading to a tense atmosphere in the classroom."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The White House could have backed away so that it didn't antagonize the members who support these programs... but it didn't.

The Economist

Medications designed to counteract inflammation in the skin may antagonize the effects of mediators (e.g., antihistamines).

Encyclopedia Britannica

They may even alienate or antagonize some respondents so that they refuse to complete the interview.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The neurochemical alterations in mania are less clearly understood, but it is well established that drugs effective in the treatment of mania are those that antagonize dopamine and serotonin.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Criticism can antagonize authors even when it performs its function well.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On the other hand, Trotsky was not successful as a leader of men, partly because he allowed his brilliance and arrogance to antagonize the lesser lights in the communist movement.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, the Gdańsk legislative assembly, which was of German composition, tended to antagonize the Polish overseer whenever possible.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The king, although fearful that the Sejm would go too far and antagonize Russia, eventually joined with the patriots in approving, on May 3, 1791, the first modern written constitution in Europe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As part of his policy of preserving the impartiality of the Holy See and serving as mediator between nations, Pius did not want to antagonize fascist Italy and Nazi Germany by issuing an encyclical that would have provoked them, a decision now cited by historians antipathetic to the pope as a sign of his indifference in the face of evil.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His father had been skeptical about the benefits of such a policy, knowing that it would antagonize most of his own people and arouse the suspicion of the Turks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Now he ventured to antagonize Athens by recapturing Amphipolis, the strategic key securing the eastern frontier and giving access into Thrace; and in 356 he took the west Thracian Crenides (renamed by him Philippi), a place newly founded to exploit new finds of silver and gold in Mount Pangaeum.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "antagonize", consider the intensity of the reaction you want to convey. Alternatives like "irritate" or "provoke" may be more suitable for milder situations.

Common error

Avoid using "antagonize" when a simpler word like "question" or "challenge" would suffice. "Antagonize" implies a deliberate effort to provoke a negative reaction, which might not always be the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "antagonize" is as a transitive verb. It describes the action of causing someone to become hostile or unfriendly. Ludwig AI's examples illustrate its use in various contexts, such as political discourse, interpersonal relationships, and even biological processes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Encyclopedias

31%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "antagonize" is a verb that describes the act of provoking hostility or opposition. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Encyclopedias. While often carrying a negative connotation, the term itself is neutrally registered. When using "antagonize", consider the intensity of the intended reaction and avoid overusing it in neutral contexts. Alternative phrases like "provoke" or "irritate" may be more appropriate depending on the nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provoke

Focuses more on inciting a reaction without necessarily implying hostility.

irritate

Suggests a milder form of annoyance, not necessarily leading to open conflict.

rile up

Implies stirring someone into an excited or agitated state, often negative.

vex

Highlights causing distress or annoyance, often in a petty way.

harass

Indicates persistent and unwanted bothering, potentially escalating to abuse.

incense

Conveys a stronger sense of anger and outrage.

infuriate

Signifies causing extreme anger and frustration.

aggravate

Emphasizes making a situation or feeling worse.

offend

Highlights causing hurt feelings or displeasure.

alienate

Suggests causing someone to feel isolated or estranged.

FAQs

How can I use "antagonize" in a sentence?

You can use "antagonize" to describe actions that deliberately provoke hostility or opposition. For example, "His constant teasing began to antagonize his classmates." or "The politician's controversial statements were likely to antagonize many voters."

What are some synonyms for "antagonize"?

Some synonyms for "antagonize" include "provoke", "irritate", "rile up", and "harass". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "antagonize" and "irritate"?

"Antagonize" implies a more deliberate and often stronger effort to provoke a negative reaction or hostility. "Irritate" suggests a milder form of annoyance. Using "antagonize" suggests an intent to cause conflict or opposition, while "irritate" implies simply causing minor frustration.

Is it better to say "antagonize" or "provoke"?

The best choice depends on the context. "Provoke" is a broader term that can mean simply to incite a reaction, while "antagonize" specifically implies inciting a hostile or negative reaction. If you're referring to causing a negative reaction, "antagonize" is more precise. If you are referring to create positive reaction, the word "provoke" is more appropriated.