antagonize

[ænˈtæɡənaɪz]

antagonize Definition

  • 1to cause someone to become hostile or unfriendly
  • 2to act in a way that opposes or provokes someone

Using antagonize: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "antagonize" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Don't antagonize your sister, she's already upset.

  • Example

    His comments only served to antagonize the situation.

  • Example

    The new policy is likely to antagonize many customers.

antagonize Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for antagonize

Antonyms for antagonize

Phrases with antagonize

  • to provoke or pressure someone into doing something they don't want to do

    Example

    She antagonized him into taking the job offer.

  • antagonize an injury

    to worsen an injury by continuing to use or stress the affected area

    Example

    He kept playing despite his sprained ankle, which only antagonized the injury.

  • behavior that is confrontational, hostile, or opposing

    Example

    The two countries engaged in antagonistic behavior towards each other, leading to tensions and conflict.

Origins of antagonize

from Greek 'antagonizesthai', meaning 'to struggle against'

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Summary: antagonize in Brief

'Antagonize' [ænˈtæɡənaɪz] means to cause someone to become hostile or unfriendly, or to act in a way that opposes or provokes someone. It can be used in phrases like 'antagonize someone into doing something,' 'antagonize an injury,' and 'antagonistic behavior.' Synonyms include 'provoke,' 'irritate,' and 'annoy,' while antonyms include 'appease,' 'pacify,' and 'conciliate.'