dualistic

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'dualistic' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe something that exists as two opposite parts, like a set of beliefs or principles. For example: "The dualistic nature of their relationship made it difficult for them to find common ground."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

In the dualistic universe mapped out by Descartes in the late 17th century, for example, animals were regarded as cogs in the vast machinery of nature.

The Economist

Numenius advocates a strong dualistic position.

SEP

The problem with dualistic and hierarchical modes of thinking, however, is not just that that they are epistemically unreliable.

SEP

The new religion was to be built upon a thoroughly rational dualistic principle of cosmogony, which also to a large extent drew upon the concept of Gestalt qualities that he had developed early in his career.

SEP

This would lead Benjamin to attempt a radical rethinking of the philosophical concept of the Idea, away from its dualistic associations with a timeless and purely rational essence of things.

SEP

This "knowledge argument" has been regarded as a strong reason to accept a dualistic view of our experiences.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

The two movements are non-dualistic.

SEP

Three themes predominate Churchland's philosophical discussion: developing an alternative to the logical empiricist theory of intertheoretic reduction; responding to property-dualistic arguments based on subjectivity and sensory qualia; and responding to anti-reductionist multiple realizability arguments.

SEP

Accordingly the hosshin can be understood in its embodied form as ri-hosshin (or rishin) and as chi-hosshin (or chishin), two aspects which are ultimately non-dualistic (richi funi).

SEP

And yet simultaneously it expresses Dainichi's compassion for the unawakened (though ultimately they are non-dualistic with the Buddha) so that they may also enjoy the fruits of the Dharma.

SEP

Since the body of Dainichi is the cosmos itself, these "three mysteries" of its functions are at work in all thing-events and are ultimately non-dualistic with the corresponding movements of ourselves.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing philosophical or metaphysical concepts, use "dualistic" to precisely convey the idea of two distinct and often opposing principles or substances. For instance, "the mind-body problem often involves a dualistic perspective".

Common error

Avoid using "dualistic" when simply referring to two separate items that aren't necessarily opposed. For example, saying "a dualistic approach involving planning and execution" is less precise than "a two-pronged approach" if the planning and execution phases aren't presented as inherently opposing forces.

Linguistic Context

The word "dualistic" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe something that involves or embodies a duality. As Ludwig AI points out, it signifies a division into two often opposing parts or principles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

72%

News & Media

15%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dualistic" is an adjective signifying a division into two distinct and often opposing elements or principles. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in philosophical, scientific, and academic discussions. While versatile, it's crucial to use it accurately, ensuring the context genuinely involves a duality rather than merely two separate items. Related terms include "two-sided" and "binary", offering alternative ways to express similar concepts. Understanding its implications and using it precisely can greatly enhance the clarity and accuracy of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two-sided

Emphasizes the presence of two distinct aspects or facets.

binary

Highlights a system with two possible states or values.

dichotomous

Focuses on division into two mutually exclusive categories.

twofold

Indicates a double nature or purpose.

polarized

Describes a situation where opinions or forces are concentrated at opposing extremes.

antithetical

Highlights direct opposition or contrast.

conflicting

Stresses the presence of opposing forces or ideas.

opposite

Indicates a direct contrast or reverse relationship.

contrasting

Emphasizes the act of comparing two different things.

mutually exclusive

Highlights two options or situations that cannot coexist.

FAQs

How is "dualistic" used in philosophical contexts?

In philosophy, "dualistic" often refers to theories that posit two fundamental and distinct substances or principles, such as mind and matter. The term is crucial in discussions about metaphysics, epistemology, and the philosophy of mind.

What are some common examples of dualistic concepts?

Examples include mind/body dualism, good/evil dualism, and subject/object dualism. These concepts represent fundamental divisions in how we understand the world and our place in it.

How does a non-dualistic perspective differ from a "dualistic" one?

A non-dualistic perspective seeks to transcend or dissolve the perceived divisions between seemingly separate entities, emphasizing interconnectedness and unity. In contrast, a "dualistic" viewpoint maintains a clear distinction between these entities.

When is it inappropriate to use the term "dualistic"?

Avoid using "dualistic" when simply referring to two separate items that aren't necessarily opposed or presented as fundamental divisions. For instance, use more precise terms like "two-part" or "two-fold" when describing a process with distinct but non-conflicting stages.