FIGURES OF SPEECH - ANTITHESIS

ANTITHESIS

Two words or ideas, opposite in meaning put together in a sentence forms an antithesis.

In antithesis a striking opposition or contrast of words or sentiments is made in the same sentence. It is employed to secure emphasis.

When opposite ideas or words are used in the same sentence, the figure of speech is antithesis.

Examples:

1. Speech is silvern, but silence is golden.

Two opposite ideas of 'the value of speech' as opposed to 'that of gold' are placed together in the same sentence for effect.

2. We'll say it very loud and slow.

The given line is an example of Antithesis.

Here, two opposite words are used 'loud' and 'slow'

3. And dreaming a little and doing much.

The given line is an example of Antithesis.

Here, two opposite ideas are used in the same sentence 'little' and 'much'

4. It's sharing sorrow and work and mirth.

The given line is an example of Antithesis.

Here, two opposite ideas 'sorrow' and 'mirth' are used in the same sentence.

5. It will but lead some to greed and others to hunger.

Opposite ideas are expressed.