What is the opposite of “autotelic”?

What is the antonym of “autotelic”?

The antonyms of autotelic are exotelic and heterotelic. These words describe the purpose or motivation behind an activity or task.

Brief Definitions of the Antonym(s)

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

exotelic

An activity that is done for an external goal or reward, rather than for its own sake.

Example

Studying for a test is an exotelic activity because the goal is to pass the test, not to enjoy the studying itself.

heterotelic

An activity that has a specific end goal or purpose, but that is not inherently enjoyable or satisfying.

Example

Cleaning the house is a heterotelic activity because the goal is to have a clean house, not to enjoy the act of cleaning itself.

How are these antonyms different from each other?

• 1. Exotelic activities are done for an external goal or reward, while autotelic activities are done for their own sake.
• 2. Heterotelic activities have a specific end goal or purpose, but may not be inherently enjoyable or satisfying, while autotelic activities are inherently enjoyable or satisfying.

Good things to know

• 1. Personal Development: Use these antonyms to reflect on your own motivations and goals.
• 2. Education: Incorporate these words into discussions about learning and teaching.
• 3. Psychology: Use these words to discuss intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in psychology.

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Remember this!

The antonyms exotelic and heterotelic describe activities that are done for external goals or specific end purposes, while autotelic activities are done for their own sake and are inherently enjoyable or satisfying. These words can be used to reflect on personal motivations, discuss learning and teaching, and explore intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in psychology.