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Definition of Antithesis

Examples of antithesis in everyday speech, common examples of antithesis from famous speeches, examples of proverbs featuring antithesis, utilizing antithesis in writing, antithesis and parallelism, antithesis and juxtaposition, use of antithesis in sentences  , examples of antithesis in literature.

Antithesis is an effective literary device and figure of speech in which a writer intentionally juxtaposes two contrasting ideas or entities. Antithesis is typically achieved through parallel structure, in which opposing concepts or elements are paired in adjacent phrases , clauses , or sentences. This draws the reader’s attention to the significance or importance of the agents being contrasted, thereby adding a memorable and meaningful quality to the literary work.

Example 1:  Hamlet (William Shakespeare)

Give every man thine ear, but few thy voice ; Take each man’s censure, but reserve thy judgment.

Example 2:  Paradise Lost  (John Milton)

Here at least We shall be free; the Almighty hath not built Here for his envy, will not drive us hence: Here we may reign secure, and in my choice To reign is worth ambition though in Hell: Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heaven.

Example 3:  Fire and Ice  (Robert Frost)

Some say the world will end in fire, Some say in ice. From what I’ve tasted of desire I hold with those who favor fire. But if it had to perish twice, I think I know enough of hate To say that for destruction ice Is also great And would suffice.

Example 4: The Gettysburg Address by Abraham Lincoln

We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives so that nation might live.

The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract.

The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.

Function of Antithesis

Synonyms of antithesis, post navigation.

• Literary Terms
• Definition & Examples
• How to Use Antithesis

I. What is an Antithesis?

“Antithesis” literally means “opposite” – it is usually the opposite of a statement, concept, or idea. In literary analysis, an antithesis is a pair of statements or images in which the one reverses the other. The pair is written with similar grammatical structures to show more contrast. Antithesis (pronounced an-TITH-eh-sis) is used to emphasize a concept, idea, or conclusion.

II. Examples of Antithesis

That’s one small step for a man – one giant leap for mankind .  (Neil Armstrong, 1969)

In this example, Armstrong is referring to man walking on the moon. Although taking a step is an ordinary activity for most people, taking a step on the moon, in outer space, is a major achievement for all humanity.

To err is human ; to forgive , divine . (Alexander Pope)

This example is used to point out that humans possess both worldly and godly qualities; they can all make mistakes, but they also have the power to free others from blame.

The world will little note , nor long remember , what we say here, but it can never forget what they did  (Abraham Lincoln, The Gettysburg Address )

In his speech, Lincoln points out that the details of that moment may not be memorable, but the actions would make history, and therefore, never entirely forgotten.

Antithesis can be a little tricky to see at first. To start, notice how each of these examples is separated into two parts . The parts are separated either by a dash, a semicolon, or the word “but.” Antithesis always has this multi-part structure (usually there are two parts, but sometimes it can be more, as we’ll see in later examples). The parts are not always as obvious as they are in these examples, but they will always be there.

Next, notice how the second part of each example contains terms that reverse or invert terms in the first part: small step vs. giant leap; human vs. divine; we say vs. they do. In each of the examples, there are several pairs of contrasted terms between the first part and the second, which is quite common in antithesis.

Finally, notice that each of the examples contains some parallel structures and ideas in addition to the opposites. This is key! The two parts are not simply contradictory statements. They are a matched pair that have many grammatical structures or concepts in common; in the details, however, they are opposites.

For example, look at the parallel grammar of Example 1: the word “one,” followed by an adjective, a noun, and then the word “for.” This accentuates the opposites by setting them against a backdrop of sameness – in other words, two very different ideas are being expressed with very, very similar grammatical structures.

To recap: antithesis has three things:

• Two or more parts
• Reversed or inverted ideas
• (usually) parallel grammatical structure

III. The Importance of Verisimilitude

Antithesis is basically a complex form of juxtaposition . So its effects are fairly similar – by contrasting one thing against its opposite, a writer or speaker can emphasize the key attributes of whatever they’re talking about. In the Neil Armstrong quote, for example, the tremendous significance of the first step on the moon is made more vivid by contrasting it with the smallness and ordinariness of the motion that brought it about.

Antithesis can also be used to express curious contradictions or paradoxes. Again, the Neil Armstrong quote is a good example: Armstrong is inviting his listeners to puzzle over the fact that a tiny, ordinary step – not so different from the millions of steps we take each day – can represent so massive a technological accomplishment as the moon landing.

Paradoxically, an antithesis can also be used to show how two seeming opposites might in fact be similar.

IV. Examples of Verisimilitude in Literature

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Forgive us this day our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us . (The Lord’s Prayer)

The antithesis is doing a lot of work here. First, it shows the parallel between committing an evil act and being the victim of one. On the surface, these are opposites, and this is part of the antithesis, but at the same time they are, in the end, the same act from different perspectives. This part of the antithesis is basically just an expression of the Golden Rule.

Second, the antithesis displays a parallel between the speaker (a human) and the one being spoken to (God). The prayer is a request for divine mercy, and at the same time a reminder that human beings should also be merciful.

All the joy the world contains has come through wanting happiness for others . All the misery the world contains has come through wanting pleasure for yourself . (Shantideva, The Way of the Bodhisattva )

The antithesis here comes with some pretty intense parallel structure. Most of the words in each sentence are exactly the same as those in the other sentence. (“All the ___ the world contains has come through wanting ____ for ____.”) This close parallel structure makes the antithesis all the more striking, since the words that differ become much more visible.

Another interesting feature of this antithesis is that it makes “pleasure” and “happiness” seem like opposites, when most of us might think of them as more or less synonymous. The quote makes happiness seem noble and exalted, whereas pleasure is portrayed as selfish and worthless.

The proper function of man is to live , not to exist . I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong  (Jack London, Credo )

The opening antithesis here gets its punch from the fact that we think of living and existing as pretty similar terms. But for London, they are opposites. Living is about having vivid experiences, learning, and being bold; simply existing is a dull, pointless thing. These two apparently similar words are used in this antithesis to emphasize the importance of living as opposed to mere existing.

The second antithesis, on the other hand, is just the opposite – in this case, London is taking two words that seem somewhat opposed (waste and prolong), and telling us that they are in fact the same . Prolonging something is making it last; wasting something is letting it run out too soon. But, says London, when it comes to life, they are the same. If you try too hard to prolong your days (that is, if you’re so worried about dying that you never face your fears and live your life), then you will end up wasting them because you will never do anything worthwhile.

V. Examples of Verisimilitude in Pop Culture

Everybody doesn’t like something, but nobody doesn’t like Sara Lee. (Sara Lee pastry advertisement)

This classic ad uses antithesis to set up a deliberate grammatical error. This is a common technique in advertising, since people are more likely to remember a slogan that is grammatically incorrect. (Even if they only remember it because they found it irritating, it still sticks in their brain, which is all that an ad needs to do.) The antithesis helps make the meaning clear, and throws the grammatical error into sharper relief.

What men must know , a boy must learn . (The Lookouts)

Here’s another example of how parallel structure can turn into antithesis fairly easily. (The structure is noun-“must”-verb. ) The antithesis also expresses the basic narrative of The Lookouts , which is all about kids learning to fend for themselves and become full-fledged adults.

Shut Your Mouth and Open Your Eyes (the band “AFI” – album title)

The antithesis here is a juxtaposition of two different actions (opening and shutting) that are actually part of the same sort of behavior – the behavior of somebody who wants to understand the world rather than be the center of attention. It’s basically a restatement of the old adage that “those who speak the most often have the least to say.”

VI. Related Terms

• Juxtaposition

Antithesis is basically a form of juxtaposition . Juxtaposition, though, is a much broader device that encompasses any deliberate use of contrast or contradiction by an author. So, in addition to antithesis, it might include:

• The scene in “The Godfather” where a series of brutal murders is intercut with shots of a baptism, juxtaposing birth and death.
• “A Song of Ice and Fire” (George R. R. Martin book series)
• Heaven and Hell
• Mountains and the sea
• Dead or alive
• “In sickness and in health”

Antithesis performs a very similar function, but does so in a more complicated way by using full sentences (rather than single words or images) to express the two halves of the juxtaposition.

Here is an antithesis built around some of the common expressions from above

• “ Sheep go to Heaven ; goats go to Hell .”
• “Beethoven’s music is as mighty as the mountains and as timeless as the sea .”
• “In sickness he loved me; in health he abandoned ”

Notice how the antithesis builds an entire statement around the much simpler juxtaposition. And, crucially, notice that each of those statements exhibits parallel grammatical structure . In this way, both Juxtaposition and parallel structures can be used to transform a simple comparison, into antithesis.

List of Terms

• Alliteration
• Amplification
• Anachronism
• Anthropomorphism
• Antonomasia
• APA Citation
• Aposiopesis
• Autobiography
• Bildungsroman
• Characterization
• Circumlocution
• Cliffhanger
• Comic Relief
• Connotation
• Deus ex machina
• Deuteragonist
• Doppelganger
• Double Entendre
• Dramatic irony
• Equivocation
• Extended Metaphor
• Figures of Speech
• Flash-forward
• Foreshadowing
• Intertextuality
• Literary Device
• Malapropism
• Onomatopoeia
• Parallelism
• Pathetic Fallacy
• Personification
• Point of View
• Polysyndeton
• Protagonist
• Red Herring
• Rhetorical Device
• Rhetorical Question
• Science Fiction
• Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
• Synesthesia
• Turning Point
• Understatement
• Urban Legend
• Verisimilitude
• Essay Guide
• Cite This Website

Literary Devices

Literary devices, terms, and elements, definition of antithesis, difference between antithesis and juxtaposition, common examples of antithesis, significance of antithesis in literature, examples of antithesis in literature.

HAMLET: To be, or not to be, that is the question— Whether ’tis Nobler in the mind to suffer The Slings and Arrows of outrageous Fortune, Or to take Arms against a Sea of troubles, And by opposing, end them?

( Hamlet by William Shakespeare)

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way…

( A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens)

There was only one catch and that was Catch-22, which specified that a concern for one’s own safety in the face of dangers that were real and immediate was the process of a rational mind. Orr was crazy and could be grounded. All he had to do was ask; and as soon as he did, he would no longer be crazy and would have to fly more missions. Orr would be crazy to fly more missions and sane if he didn’t, but if he was sane he had to fly them. If he flew them he was crazy and didn’t have to; but if he didn’t want to he was sane and had to. Yossarian was moved very deeply by the absolute simplicity of this clause of Catch-22 and let out a respectful whistle.

This case is not a difficult one, it requires no minute sifting of complicated facts, but it does require you to be sure beyond all reasonable doubt as to the guilt of the defendant.

( To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee)

In Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird , Atticus Finch is a lawyer representing Tom Robinson. Atticus presents the above statement to the jury, setting up an antithesis. He asserts that the case is not difficult and yet requires the jury to be absolutely sure of their decision. Atticus believes the case to have a very obvious conclusion, and hopes that the jury will agree with him, but he is also aware of the societal tensions at work that will complicate the case.

Test Your Knowledge of Antithesis

WITCHES: Fair is foul, and foul is fair: Hover through the fog and filthy air.

MACBETH: Is this a dagger which I see before me, The handle toward my hand?

WITCHES: Something wicked this way comes.

4. Which of the following quotes from Heller’s Catch-22 contains an example of antithesis? A. There are now fifty or sixty countries fighting in this war. Surely so many counties can’t all be worth dying for. B. He had decided to live forever or die in the attempt, and his only mission each time he went up was to come down alive. C. You’re inches away from death every time you go on a mission. How much older can you be at your age? [spoiler title=”Answer to Question #4″] Answer: B is the correct answer.[/spoiler]

What is Antithesis ?

From the Greek antitithena, meaning “to oppose” or set opposite.” Antithesis is a powerful writing tool that sets two opposing or contrasting works, phrases, or ideas against each other.  It juxtaposes two contrasting ideas against each other in what is commonly referred to as a parallel sentence. An example of what this means is,  “Go big or go home.” Note how in this common example, two contrasting ideas are set in opposition creating a balanced, rhythmic sentence. And if in doubt, always remember that its name may be intimidating but, antithesis is a remarkably easy tool to master.

How to pronounce Antithesis ?

When do writers use antithesis .

Writers use Antithesis to make their writing more memorable by creating rhythmic structure. The juxtapositions of opposing ideas also make writing more believable or authoritative. Antithesis is a rhetorical device that allows writers to create a rhetorical effect and elicit an emotional response in readers. But remember:

 Use antithesis to create contrast . Ideally, you want to use opposites to create contrast . However, you will find that you can often get away with contrasting “implied” opposites.

Use antithesis to create parallel structure as in the example, “Go big or go home.” Parallel structure creates

The 3 Golden Rules

• Focus on Contrast .
• Read your writing out loud.
• Use antithesis sparingly (unless you’re Robert Frost and kind of a poetic genius).

Antithesis in Literature 📚

Literature is ripe with examples of antithesis. Two of its most famous kings will always be William Shakespeare and William Blake. Please note the examples below:

• “To be, or not to be: that is the question” – William Shakespeare, Hamlet
• “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” – Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities
• “Better to reign in Hell, then serve in Heav’n” – John Milton, Paradise Lost
• “Fair is foul, and foul is fair” – William Shakespeare, Macbeth
• “The path of excess leads to the palace of wisdom” – William Blake, The Marriage of Heaven and Hell

Antithesis in Children Literature 🧸

• “The more you give, the more you get” – Dr. Seuss, The Cat in the Hat
• “Where the sidewalk ends, the grass begins” – Shel Silverstein, “ Where the Sidewalk Ends ”
•  “The more things change, the more they stay the same” – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, The Little Prince

Antithesis in Songs 🎧

“You say yes, I say no” (But really the entire song) –  The Beatles, “Hello, Goodbye”

Antithesis in Poetry ✍🏽

Always a personal favorite of those who favor antithesis, Robert Frost, “ Fire and Ice ”

Some say the world will end in fire, Some say in ice. From what I’ve tasted of desire I hold with those who favor fire. But if it had to perish twice, I think I know enough of hate To say that for destruction ice Is also great And would suffice.

“Good we must love , and must hate ill,” – John Donne, “ Community ”

“To err is human, to forgive divine” – Alexander Pope “ An Essay on Criticism ”

Antithesis in Movie Dialogue 🎥

• The Dark Knight (2008): “You either die a hero or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain .”
• The Lion King (1994): “Oh yes, the past can hurt. But you can either run from it or learn from it”
• The Shawshank Redemption (1994): “Get busy living or get busy dying”
• Forrest Gump (1994): “Stupid is as stupid does”

Antithesis Throughout History

• “Patience is bitter, but it has a sweet fruit.” –  Aristotle
• “Folks who have no vices have very few virtues.” – Abraham Lincoln
•  “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
•  “Unlike short-sighted, egocentric humans, God ‘sees with equal eye’ the fall of a hero and a sparrow, the destruction of an atom or a solar system.” – Alexander Pope

Often Mistaken for … 👥

Juxtaposition – The act or instance of placing two things side-by-side. This does not mean opposites or in contrast or even in comparison . It simply means placing them next to each other, “juxtaposed.” Example: Night , day; light, dark; good, evil; or holiday, break. Note that in these examples, the words are placed next to each other with no other information. That is juxtaposition . Oxymoron – A figure of speech that combines words with opposite meaning into new words with a new meaning. Example: virtual + reality = “virtual reality”.

What is antithesis in literature?

Antithesis is a literary device that juxtaposes opposing or contrasting ideas within a parallel grammatical structure. This contrast of ideas is used to highlight differences, emphasize a point, or create a stark distinction between two concepts, enhancing the text’s rhetorical effect.

How does antithesis enhance a text?

Antithesis enhances a text by creating a clear contrast that can make arguments more persuasive and memorable. It emphasizes the difference between two ideas, making the message more striking and engaging for the reader. The parallel structure often used with antithesis also adds a rhythmic and balanced quality to the writing.

Can antithesis be found in both poetry and prose?

Yes, antithesis can be found in both poetry and prose . In poetry , it contributes to the poem’s aesthetic and thematic depth. In prose , especially in speeches and persuasive writing, it is used to articulate strong contrasts and make arguments more compelling.

Why do speakers and writers use antithesis?

Speakers and writers use antithesis to clarify complex ideas by contrasting them with their opposites, making the distinctions clearer to the audience . This device is effective in persuasion , as the stark comparison between opposing ideas can influence readers’ or listeners’ opinions and emotions, making the message more impactful.

How can I identify antithesis in a text?

To identify antithesis, look for sentences or phrases where two opposing ideas are presented in a parallel manner, often within the same sentence or in adjacent sentences. This device is characterized by a clear and contrasting relationship between the ideas, emphasized by similar grammatical structures.

• Scriptwriting

What is Antithesis — Definition & Examples in Literature & Film

I f you’ve ever heard sentence structure, met characters, or witnessed ideas that seem diametrically opposed, you’re actually pretty familiar with the idea of the antithesis. But there is more to it than just juxtaposing ideas. Read on to learn exactly what is antithesis, how this tool is used, and how you can include an antithesis in your next project. 

Antithesis Definition

First, let’s define antithesis.

There are a number of terms often confused for antithesis (like paradox or oxymoron ). But an antithesis has a particular grammatical structure that helps differentiate it from the rest. So, here’s the antithesis definition and then we'll look at specific examples:

ANTITHESIS DEFINITION

What is antithesis.

An antithesis is a rhetorical and literary device with parallel grammar structure but which establishes a nearly complete or exact opposition in ideas or characters. It can be effective in emphasizing drastic differences between opposing concepts.

How to pronounce antithesis: [an-TITH-uh-sis]  

Familiar antithesis examples:

• “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”
• “No pain, no gain.”
• “Out of sight, out of mind.”

The word “antithesis” comes from the Greek word meaning “setting opposite,” which is an idea that has been used in various forms. Let’s look at those various forms in more antithesis examples.

Antitheses Examples

How do we use antithesis today.

The purpose of antithetical language is not just mentioning the existence of opposing ideas, but rather emphasizing the stark differences between them.  The often lyrical and rhythmic nature of this device helps accentuate the parallel grammatical structure.

Watch the video below to learn more about how we use antitheses today. 

Antithesis Definition, Examples and Techniques

We use this device in that pure form today (see the examples above) in everyday turns of phrase. But there are more in-depth ways (in actions and story in general) that fit the antithesis definition. 

People and characters can act in an antithetical manner to their beliefs.

Antithesis Examples in Behavior: 

• A character who says they love animals but wears real fur coats.
• Someone who says they are vegetarian but eats a big steak for dinner.
• A person who uses a “Shop Small” tote bag but does their holiday shopping at Walmart. 

In addition, characters in literary or scripted works, much like people, can be antitheses to each other in and of themselves. In fact, this is often how great villains are created.

Check out the video below to see more on writing great villains , and how antagonists can mirror or juxtapose protagonists . 

Page to Picture: How to Write a Villain  •   Subscribe on YouTube

Protagonists can be an “antihero,” or the villain of a story can be portrayed separately as a parallel to the protagonist; therefore, the protagonist and antagonist highlight each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and evil and benevolent qualities. Some classic examples of this pseudo-mirrored antagonist concept are: 

Snow White and the Queen

Batman and Joker

Dumbledore and Voldemort

As you can see, the antithesis is typically the ultimate antagonist, even if the character they are meant to parallel isn’t the protagonist, as is the case in the Harry Potter series. 

Both a strong example of antithesis and nuanced portrayal of complicated character relationships, the Harry Potter series showcases a number of moral ambiguities as they pertain to Dumbledore and Voldemort.

We imported the script into StudioBinder’s screenwriting software to see exactly how this juxtaposition is first established.

Read Full Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Script

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone masterfully establishes the characteristics that Harry and Voldemort share, but it also establishes similarities between Dumbledore and Voldemort.

Throughout the series, these shared traits influence Dumbledore and Voldemort in their objectives and decisions. 

For instance, in the Sorcerer’s Stone , we are introduced to how Voldemort and Dumbledore move through the world. Hagrid tells Harry early on about Voldemort’s rise to power: he was a wizard “who went as bad as you can go [...] anyone who stood up to him ended up dead.” Hagrid frames Voldemort as a powerful wizard, capable of massive destruction. 

Antithesis Example in Harry Potter  •   Read Full Scene

Alternatively, towards the end of the first film Dumbledore explains his tactics in his work with Nicolas Flamel on the Sorcerer’s Stone . “Only a person who wanted to find the stone—find it, but not use it—would be able to get it.” Dumbledore respects power and the laws of magic, and his actions reflect that. 

Further into the series, in Order of the Phoenix , we see what happens when Dumbledore’s tremendous abilities collide with Voldemort’s formidable power in their epic Ministry of Magic duel.

Voldemort’s spells all aim to destruct, whereas Dumbledore’s are equally amazing, but meant to disarm, distinguish, or defend. 

The series is a remarkable example of how antitheses can be essential to a story, and the respective backstories, unique abilities, and of course choices of Voldemort and Dumbledore prove it.  

Implementing Antitheses

How to use antithesis.

With all the ways you can implement and define antithesis, it’s good to have a number of tricks or rules of thumb to keep in your back pocket. Whether you’re writing a short story or your next feature screenplay, here are some things you can keep in mind. 

1. Aim for Moderation

If you’re using antithesis in the form of a rhetorical device, try to keep the number of antitheses to a minimum unless it’s a crucial character trait of the speaker. Using a similar literary device too often can leave your writing predictable or even annoying. The more you use a tool, like antithetical language, the less meaning it can have. 

2. Similar Structure

Keep the structure of your antithesis as similar as possible if you want to highlight the differences more intensely. And try to keep the phrasing itself balanced. Both variables of the equation don’t have to be exact, but the lyrical phrasing can help your antithesis shine and stick long after the read. 

3. Focus on Differences

Focus on contrast but remember to find ways to draw the parallels. How can the characters be compared to the point where their differences become obvious? How can their differences lead to conversation about how the characters may actually be similar? 

Antitheses via characters and sentence structure can assist in not just interesting writing, but memorable writing. They can make your message more understandable and retainable, which should be a top goal in any written work. You never want to give you reader a reason to stop reading.

So, now that you’ve learned more about how an antithesis can strengthen your work, you can implement it  into your next project like a pro.

After all, no guts, no glory. 

What is Irony?

Antithesis is a rhetorical device you can use in everyday speech. Much like an antithesis, we encounter several types of irony in everyday life, too. Keep reading to learn about the types of irony and how they’re used in TV and Film. 

Up Next: Irony Explained →

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February 20, 2019

Rhetorical Device of the Month: Antithesis

Even when we’re not aware of it, we’re using many of the same rhetorical techniques  Aristotle, Cicero, Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, Winston Churchill , Martin Luther King, Jr. and other greats have employed in public speaking. Each month, our Buckley School resident students of classical rhetoric explain a rhetorical device that can improve your public speaking.

By JENNY MAXWELL AND JANA DALEY

"The sunlight that brought light and healing to you has brought stripes and death to me." – Frederick Douglass, using antithesis in his powerful anti-slavery speech, "The Meaning of the Fourth of July to the Negro"

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times."

"To be, or not to be."

"Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee."

Antithesis is not opposition to creating a thesis as part of an academic program, though we sympathize if you are, in fact, anti-thesis in pursuit of that master’s degree.

Pronounced ann-TITH-uh-sis , the word comes from the Greek for "set against." As a rhetorical device, antithesis is defined very specifically as the use of:

1) two opposing ideas 

2) presented in parallel structure

3) in the same sentence

The effect is to heighten the contrast—and in many cases, vividly drive the speaker’s point home.

Antithesis in speeches

To see how those effects work, consider these uses of antithesis in famous speeches:

"We must all learn to live together as brothers—or we will all perish together as fools."

-Martin Luther King, Jr. in a commencement address at Oberlin College in June 1965

"I know not what course others may take: but as for me, give me liberty or give me death."

-Patrick Henry, in his speech to the Second Virginia Convention , 1775

"No, our motto is, when they go low, we go high."

-Michelle Obama, speaking at the 2016 Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia

Frederick Douglass’s powerful speech, " The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro ," is built on juxtaposition. He delivered it on July 5, 1852 to the women of the Rochester Anti-Slavery Sewing Society--and in that speech you’ll find a number of striking examples of antithesis. Here are two:

"The sunlight that brought light and healing to you has brought stripes and death to me."

"To him, your celebration is a sham; your boasted liberty, an unholy license; your national greatness, swelling vanity."

Why use antithesis

Summarizing why a speaker (or writer) might choose to use antithesis, LitCharts writes it can:

• Present a stark choice between two alternatives 
• Convey magnitude or range
• Express strong emotions
• Create a relationship of opposition between two separate ideas
• Accentuate the qualities and characteristics of one thing by placing it in opposition to another

We’ll add that antithesis makes a point memorable—and quotable—as we’ve seen recently with the line "When they go low, we go high" and in the not-so-distant past with Neil Armstrong ’s "one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind."

Below, watch and listen as Armstrong says it himself, setting foot on the moon for the first time. And if you're interested in the controversy over whether he said "a man" or merely "man," you might enjoy this article .

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Antithesis: Meaning, Definition and Examples

Figures of speech , otherwise known as rhetorical devices, are used in the English language to beautify and make your language look and sound a lot more effective rather than a literal presentation of information. Each figure of speech has its function and is meant to perform its roles giving the context a unique effect. In this article, you will learn about one such figure of speech called antithesis. Read through the article to learn more about what antithesis is, its definition and how it differs from an oxymoron. You can also check out the examples and analyse how it is written for an in-depth understanding of the same.

Table of Contents

What is antithesis – meaning and definition, what differentiates an antithesis from an oxymoron, some common examples of antithesis, frequently asked questions on antithesis.

An antithesis is a figure of speech that states strongly contrasting ideas placed in juxtaposition. They contain compound sentences with the two independent clauses separated by a comma or a semicolon , in most cases. However, there are also instances where the antithesis is a compound sentence with a conjunction . An antithesis is mainly used to portray the stark difference between the two opposing ideas.

Antithesis, according to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, is defined as “a contrast between two things”, and according to the Cambridge Dictionary, “a difference or opposition between two things”. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary gives a more explanatory definition. According to it, antithesis is “the rhetorical contrast of ideas by means of parallel arrangements of words, clauses, or sentences”.

Knowing the difference between an antithesis and an oxymoron will help you comprehend and use both the rhetorical devices effectively. Take a look at the table given below to learn more.

Here are some of the most common examples of antithesis for your reference.

• Hope for the best; prepare for the worst.
• Keep your mouth closed and your eyes open.
• “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. It was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness.” – Charles Dickens
• “That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.” – Neil Armstrong
• “Better to reign in Hell, than to serve in Heaven.” – John Milton
• Speech is silver, but silence is gold.
• “Give every man thy ear, but few thy voice.” – William Shakespeare
• Keep your friends close; keep your enemies closer.
• “To err is human; to forgive divine.” – Alexander Pope
• Money is the root of all evil: poverty is the fruit of all goodness.

What is antithesis?

An antithesis is a figure of speech that states strongly contrasting ideas placed in juxtaposition. They contain compound sentences with the two independent clauses separated by a comma or a semicolon, in most cases. However, there are also instances where the antithesis is a compound sentence with a conjunction.

What is the definition of antithesis?

What is the difference between antithesis and oxymoron.

The main difference between an antithesis and an oxymoron is that antithesis refers to the use of two contrasting ideas or thoughts conveyed in two independent clauses placed in juxtaposition, separated by a comma, a semicolon or a conjunction; whereas, the term ‘oxymoron’ refers to the use of two opposite words within a phrase to create an effect.

Give some examples of antithesis.

Here are a few examples of antithesis for your reference.

• “Love is an ideal thing, marriage a real thing.” – Goethe
• “Folks who have no vices have very few virtues.” – Abraham Lincoln
• “Man proposes, God disposes.”
• Beggars can’t be choosers.
• Be slow in choosing, but slower in changing.

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Antithesis Definition Antithesis, which literally means “opposite,” is a rhetorical device wherein opposite thoughts are prepare in a sentence to obtain a contrasting effect. Antithesis emphasizes the idea of assessment through parallel structures of the contrasted terms or clauses. The structures of terms and clauses are similar, so that it will draw the attention of the listeners or readers. For example: “Setting foot on the moon may be a small step for a person but a giant step for mankind.” The use of contrasting thoughts, “a small step” and “a massive step,” within the sentence above emphasizes the importance of one of the most important landmarks of human history. Common Antithesis Examples Some well-known antithetical statements have become part of our everyday speech, and are regularly used in arguments and discussions. Below is a listing of some commonplace antithetical statements: Give every man thy ear, however few thy voice. Man proposes, God disposes. Love is a really perfect thing, marriage a actual thing. Speech is silver, but silence is gold. Patience is bitter, however it has a sweet fruit. Money is the foundation of all evil: poverty is the fruit of all goodness. You are smooth on the eyes, but tough on the heart. Examples of Antithesis in Literature In literature, writers rent antithesis not simplest in sentences, but additionally in characters and events. Thus, its use is extensive. Below are a few examples of antithesis in literature: Example #1: A Tale of Two Cities (By Charles Dickens) The establishing lines of Charles Dickens’ novel A Tale of Two Cities provides an unforgettable antithesis example: “It become the first-class of times, it become the worst of times, it became the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it become the epoch of belief, it turned into the epoch of incredulity, it changed into the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it changed into the spring of hope, it was the wintry weather of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing earlier than us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the opposite way.” The contrasting thoughts, set in parallel structures, markedly spotlight the battle that existed within the time discussed in the novel. Example #2: Julius Caesar (By William Shakespeare) In William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, we note antithesis within the characters of Mark Antony and Marcus Brutus. Brutus is portrayed as the “noblest of Romans,” near Caesar, and someone who cherished Rome and Caesar. Antony, at the contrary, is proven as a person with the evil intentions of harming Caesar, and taking charge of Rome. These antithetical characters spotlight the battle inside the play. Example #3: An Essay on Criticism (By Alexander Pope) Alexander Pope, in his An Essay on Criticism, says: “To err is human; to forgive divine.” Fallibility is a trait of humans, and God – the Creator – is most forgiving. Through those antithetical thoughts, Pope exhibits the simple nature of human beings. He wants to say that God is forgiving because his creation is erring. Example #4: Community (By John Donne) We find antithesis in John Donne’s poem Community: “Good we must love, and must hate ill, For unwell is ill, and correct desirable still; But there are things indifferent, Which we may neither hate, nor love, But one, and then another prove, As we shall discover our fancy bent.” Two contrasting words “love” and “hate” are combined within the above lines. It emphasizes that we love right due to the fact it is always top, and we hate bad due to the fact it's far always bad. It is a matter of desire to love or hate things that are neither good nor bad. Example #5: Paradise Lost (By John Milton) John Milton, in Paradise Lost, says: “Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heav’n.” The contrasting thoughts of reign/serve, and Hell/Heav’n are positioned on this sentence to acquire an antithetical effect. Function of Antithesis A literary tool, like antithesis, makes use of phrases to convey ideas in exceptional methods from the commonplace words and expressions of daily life. Thus, it conveys meaning greater vividly than regular speech. When contrasting thoughts are brought together, the concept is expressed extra emphatically. As a literary device, antithesis makes contrasts in an effort to observe pros and cons of a subject below discussion, and facilitates to bring on judgment on that precise subject.

• Alliteration
• Anachronism
• Antimetabole
• Aposiopesis
• Characterization
• Colloquialism
• Connotation
• Deus Ex Machina
• Didacticism
• Doppelganger
• Double Entendre
• Flash Forward
• Foreshadowing
• Internal Rhyme
• Juxtaposition
• Non Sequitur
• Onomatopoeia
• Parallelism
• Pathetic Fallacy
• Personification
• Poetic Justice
• Point of View
• Portmanteau
• Protagonist
• Red Herring
• Superlative
• Synesthesia
• Tragicomedy
• Tragic Flaw
• Verisimilitude

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Alabama Supreme Court authorizes third nitrogen gas execution

Alabama has authorized the execution of a third person by nitrogen gas

MONTGOMERY, Ala. -- A third person is set to be executed by nitrogen gas, Alabama authorized Wednesday, months after becoming the first state to put a person to death with the previously untested method.

The Alabama Supreme Court granted the state attorney general’s request to authorize the execution of Carey Dale Grayson, one of four teenagers convicted in the 1994 killing of Vickie Deblieux in Jefferson County. Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey will set Grayson’s execution date.

In January, the state put Kenneth Smith to death in the nation’s first nitrogen gas execution. A second execution using the protocol is set for Sept. 26 for Alan Eugene Miller . Miller recently reached a lawsuit settlement with the state over the execution method.

Alabama and attorneys for people in prison continue to present opposing views of what happened during the first execution using nitrogen gas. Smith shook for several minutes on the death chamber gurney as he was put to death Jan. 25. While Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall described the execution as “textbook,” lawyers for inmates said it was the antithesis of the state’s prediction that nitrogen would provide a quick and humane death.

Grayson has an ongoing lawsuit seeking to block the state from using the same protocol that was used to execute Smith. His attorneys argued the method causes unconstitutional levels of pain and that Smith showed signs of “conscious suffocation.”

“We are disappointed that the Alabama Supreme Court has authorized the setting of an execution date before the federal courts have had a chance to review Mr. Grayson’s challenge to the constitutionality of Alabama’s current nitrogen protocol, and before Mr. Grayson has had an opportunity to review any changes to the protocol brought about by the recent Alan Miller settlement,” Matt Schulz, an assistant federal defender who is representing Grayson, wrote in an email.

Earlier this month, Miller reached a “confidential settlement agreement” with the state to end his lawsuit over the specifics of the state’s nitrogen gas protocol. A spokesperson for the Alabama Department of Corrections declined to comment on whether the state is making procedural changes for Miller.

The state has asked a judge to dismiss Grayson’s lawsuit, arguing that the execution method is constitutional and that his claims are speculative.

Marshall’s office did not immediately comment on the court setting the execution date.

Grayson was charged with torturing and killing Deblieux, 37, on Feb. 21, 1994. Prosecutors said Deblieux was hitchhiking from Tennessee to her mother’s home in Louisiana when four teenagers, including Grayson, offered her a ride. Prosecutors said they took her to a wooded area, attacked and beat her and threw her off a cliff. The teens later mutilated her body, prosecutors said.

Grayson, Kenny Loggins and Trace Duncan were all convicted and sentenced to death. However, Loggins and Duncan, who were under 18 at the time of the crime, had their death sentences set aside after the U.S. Supreme Court in 2005 banned the execution of offenders who were younger than 18 at the time of the crime. Grayson was 19.

The fourth teenager was sentenced to life imprisonment.

Schulz noted that Alabama, in a 2004 Supreme Court brief opposing an age cutoff for the death penalty, wrote that it would be nonsensical to allow Grayson to be executed but not the codefendants whom the state described as “plainly are every bit as culpable — if not more so — in Vickie’s death and mutilation.” The state was seeking to allow all the teens to be executed.

Lethal injection remains Alabama’s primary execution method but gives inmates the option to choose the electric chair or nitrogen gas. Grayson had previously selected nitrogen gas as his preferred execution method, but that was before the state had developed a process to use it.

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We’re stuck with kamala harris on the ticket — regardless of nobody voting for her.

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We are still a democracy. Not yet sunk to banana republic status. But it’s coming in just three months.

Faster than my face is falling. Faster than investigators can dredge deep into this new left-wing presidential wannabe’s left-wing vice presidential lefty choice . His pillow’s probably on the right side of the bed.

The good news? Her veep pick comes from that great political cutting-edge Minnesota which is known globally for hockey and soybeans.

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Why? Because she didn’t like it. Because she couldn’t tell her behind from some drug dealer who was jumping a fence illegally.

You cannot sweep a bad child under the rug. This one’s no leader. This bad child seized a brilliantly timed opportunity.

Our Democratic deadhead president mumbled and stumbled for four years from his basement toilet. Then went nighty night and beddy-bye close — or almost near — to his marital ventriloquist. And our beloved God-blessed country limped along.

He alone was our threat to Democracy. Choosing HER without a vote, no vote, any vote — engineered the antithesis of a Democratic process.

Here’s the deal

Understand, nobody pledged to this person . Nobody put their signatures down next to hers.

Millions of us in this country. Not one citizen truly actually put their names down for her. Ever. Never. Or paraded for her.

Who knows what she thought. If she actually had a thought. Or said. Or believed. Or promised. Or will attempt.

All we ever got from her was burble and babble and long pants.

Government-savvy smart-ass Democrats were holding off Biden’s bye-bye. His stepping aside was programmed.

The Rockettes weren’t as rehearsed. Planned. Timed. Rockets to the moon weren’t this smooth.

Even if he screamed and screeched — the deal was done.

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And the USA allowed this?

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The damnocrats orchestrated the great coup of this century by having burbling Biden lurch sideways — so late in the game — so that other dems had to hide aside so Kamala could grab the brass ring.

I do not want her. I didn’t vote for her. I was given no choice. I didn’t sign up for her. None of us did.

Child’s play

I apologize to my countrymen for saying this. BUT: I am not a Washington insider.

I have no husband. Not associated with any law firm. Not a devoted Republican. Not invariably listed as “brilliant.” I can’t paint, dance or win at chess. I have, however, voted for Democrats.

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The Keepers From 'The Umbrella Academy' Season 4 Explained

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Editor's Note: The following contains spoilers for Season 4 of The Umbrella Academy.

The Big Picture

• The Keepers in The Umbrella Academy Season 4 aim to save the universe by facilitating the Cleanse, destroying alternate timelines.
• The Thibedeaus' motivations contrast with Reginald's, driven by order and community.
• Abigail Hargreeves, part of the Keepers, manipulates events to bring about the Cleanse and restore the universe.

An eccentric array of villains has come and gone from The Umbrella Academy , from some of the Hargreeves family members themselves to the Temps Commission or the Handler. Season 4 introduces us to the underground cult called the Keepers, which Five ( Aidan Gallagher ) and Lila ( Ritu Arya ) stumble upon during their undercover work. Ironically enough, the Keepers are the only villains that both aim to save the universe and successfully achieve it , despite the initial resistance from the Hargreeves.

The Umbrella Academy

A dysfunctional family of adopted superhero siblings reunites to solve the mystery of their father's death and prevent an impending apocalypse. As they confront their past and battle external threats, their fractured relationships and unique powers drive a mix of action, drama, and dark humor.

Jean and Gean Create "The Keepers" in 'The Umbrella Academy'

During their undercover operations, Five and Lila find themselves at a mysterious seminar led by Gene ( Nick Offerman ) and Jean Thibedeau ( Megan Mullally ). The cult believes that they are not living in the original or correct timeline. This belief began when they would have dreams of the original universe, but would wake up to this one instead. The scientific community rejected the Thibedeaus' theories, and thus they went underground and fostered their own group of devout listeners, all while coining the term: "The Umbrella Effect."

It is easy to liken this concept to the Mandela Effect . The cult members would often find artifacts, relics or objects that they believed proved the existence of another timeline. This included an article clipping about The Umbrella Academy , which does not exist in this timeline and is also what the term was named after. The Thibedeaus actually have an entire barn dedicated to such memorabilia , from different copies of the same VHS tape, to a gutted giant squid they believe is linked to salvation.

The Keepers Try To Facilitate "The Cleanse"

The Keepers' ultimate goal is to facilitate the Cleanse which will destroy all alternate timelines, leaving the original one . To do this, Jennifer ( Victoria Sawal ), who had been cut out of the giant squid years ago and had Durango in her, needed to be united with someone that had Marigold-induced powers . It is the contact between Durango and Marigold that causes the Cleanse. Due to the link between "the Jennifer incident" and the first Ben Hargreeves' ( Justin H. Min ) death, it is her contact with Ben that catalyzes the Cleanse. This is why the Thibedeaus allowed Jennifer to escape with Ben and also gathered their large army to barricade the building the couple was in The Umbrella Academy finale .

The Thibedeaus' motivations make them the antithesis of the Hargreeves , namely Reginald ( Colm Feore ). Reginald did everything in his power to keep the timelines fractured so he could essentially singularly reign over the multiverse; he thrived on chaos and deceit. In comparison, the Thibedeaus try to restore the original timeline by recruiting as many people as possible, driven by order and community.

How Do The Keepers Die in 'The Umbrella Academy?'

Sy Grossman ( David Cross ) was also involved in facilitating the Cleanse, as he manipulated the Hargreeves siblings into "saving" Jennifer in the first place -- causing that initial contact. Sy then went undercover as a member of the Keepers in order to keep ahead of the situation. When Gene is overcome by suspicion and jealousy, Sy reveals his true identity as Abigail Hargreeves ( Liisa Repo-Martell ). She mercilessly kills Gene and uses his identity/body as a disguise . As the creator of Marigold and Durango, Abigail also shared the Keepers' view of restoring the universe, but she was also driven out of guilt. She is acutely aware of the reality of the Cleanse , and as such, during the final stand-off, she also brutally kills Jean to rile the Keepers back into a frenzy and eliminate any doubt they may have had about leaving.

The wider group of the Keepers were fairly gullible and likely envisioned that Cleanse as a euphoric purging. So when the true Cleanse began , with the repulsive amalgamation of Jennifer and Ben causing havoc, the newly disillusioned Keepers scattered, terrified of the painful end they were about to endure . Though the Keepers initially seemed like they were on a delusional warpath, their beliefs turned out to be correct, though maybe not as pleasant as how they imagined.

The Umbrella Academy is available to stream on Netflix in the U.S.

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VP Harris helped create 'Bidenomics,' White House says

by JACKSON WALKER | The National Desk

WASHINGTON (TND) — White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters during a White House press briefing Wednesday that Vice President Kamala Harris helped create President Joe Biden’s economic strategy, dubbed “Bidenomics.”

The president coined the term to encompass his strategy of rebuilding the economy “from the middle out and the bottom up, not the top down.” His plan claims to be the antithesis of trickle-down theory, a Reagan-era policy which argued providing tax breaks to large corporations would lead to improved outcomes for all Americans.

Axios reported Wednesday that Harris is working to “distance herself” from the plan, citing its unpopularity with voters.

“Harris won't say it this bluntly in public, but her advisers do so privately: She wants to break with Biden on issues on which he's unpopular,” the outlet wrote. “First up: rising prices. This is part of a highly choreographed effort to define herself — in some cases, redefine herself — as a different kind of Democrat.”

When asked about the validity of the claim, Jean-Pierre said the plan is a product of both politicians, not just President Biden.

“Are you aware this is the Biden-Harris administration?” she asked. “One thing that I know for sure, know for sure, is that this president, this vice president are fighting very hard to make sure that the middle class is stronger.”

She went on to claim Republicans are fighting to push “MAGA-nomics” which would “supercharge inflation” and “cut social security.”

"Bidenomics has been something that both the president and the vice president has worked on,” Jean-Pierre added.

Republicans criticized the Harris campaign this week for its vagueness regarding the vice president’s policy proposals. The campaign’s website notably lacks information associated with Harris’s platform.

Conversely, former President Donald Trump’s campaign website includes 20 bullet points and a PDF document laying out his stances on key issues.

Follow Jackson Walker on X at @_jlwalker_ for the latest trending national news. Have a news tip? Send it to [email protected].

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Raiders' Antonio Pierce Sounds Off on New Age Ideas

Michael france | jul 30, 2024.

• Las Vegas Raiders

For Las Vegas Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce, it is all about the culture. Pierce's offseason, for example, was about adding to the culture. Not detracting from it. In free agency, Pierce signed key additions like Christian Wilkins and Gardner Minshew. Both bring ability and the right swagger for the Silver and Black.

In the draft, Pierce drafted tough, passionate football players that would only bolster the integrity of what he was building. Pierce invested in the draft and free agency while acting as guardian of the locker room.

But just what is Pierce's culture? It could be described as an environment that cultivates competition. One could also say that it embraces the individual by allowing the individual to embrace himself. Pierce does not force his players to act how he wants them to act. He wants them to be themselves.

"Well, the culture is in us," Pierce said at training camp. "I mean, it's in our DNA. We talk about it every day. That was the opening statement in my team meeting with those guys, the Raider Way, the Raider culture, and that never changes. Doesn't matter if we're not playing the game. ... We talk about pride, poise, passion, and when we get pads on being physical as hell with one another, putting hands on one another, blessing one another. And as you’ve seen, they're going to talk the way they talk. I'm not going to kind of hold them back from doing it.

"You know, whenever it becomes detrimental, we'll talk about it. But at the end of the day this is professional football, no matter what you say or do, it's all about the grass."

Pierce is a former linebacker, having played for the New York Giants. His head coach? Known disciplinarian Tom Coughlin. The antithesis of Pierce's modern, player-friendly philosophy. Pierce himself acknowledged it. Perhaps Coughlin's nature played a role in developing Pierce's "player's coach" sensibilities.

The best way to describe Pierce's culture might just be the word "identity."

"You know, when I played you better not say what they're saying ," Pierce said. "That's crazy. The guy I played for would probably be fining me left and right. But it's just a different age. And I think when you set standards and expectations of what to say and what to do and how far to go, I think they understand those lines. And more importantly, it gives them a sense of empowerment. And whenever they cross that line, we discuss it, and if it comes up, we'll handle it as grown men."

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Parallelism

Parallelism Definition

What is parallelism? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

Parallelism is a figure of speech in which two or more elements of a sentence (or series of sentences) have the same grammatical structure. These "parallel" elements can be used to intensify the rhythm of language, or to draw a comparison, emphasize, or elaborate on an idea. The following well-known adage is an example of parallelism: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime." The grammatical structures of the first and second sentences parallel each other.

Some additional key details about parallelism:

• Parallelism can be as simple as choosing grammatically similar elements when writing a list, as in "First do X, second do Y, third do Z."
• In some cases, parallelism involves the exact repetition of words, but all that is required to fit the definition of parallelism is the repetition of grammatical elements.
• Parallelism is a prominent feature of Hebrew and Middle Eastern poetry, and it appears frequently in both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible.

How to Pronounce Parallelism

Here's how to pronounce parallelism: par -uh-lel-iz-em

Parallelism in Grammar vs. in Rhetoric and Literature

The term "parallelism" is used to describe both a figure of speech and a principle in grammar, although its use in each context is slightly different.

Parallelism in Grammar

In grammar, parallelism is the principle that using similar grammatical elements in certain contexts—when making a list, for example—leads to sentences that flow in a more natural way. In the following sets of sentences, the first version is parallel while the second is not. Note how the examples without parallelism are awkward and a little confusing.

In this first set of sentences, the first sentence contains a list of three parallel nouns , while the second combines two nouns with a verb .

• Parallelism: Their son loved playing chess , video games , and soccer .
• No parallelism: Their son loved chess , video games , and to play soccer .

In the second set of sentences, the first contains parallel adjectives , while the second combines two adjectives with a verb .

• Parallelism ( adjectives ): The Bach Sonata was beautiful , moving , and inspiring .
• No parallelism: The Bach Sonata was beautiful , moving , and it inspired .

Parallelism in Rhetoric and Literature

In contrast to the strictly grammatical view of parallelism, in rhetoric and literature parallelism can do much more than just create a pleasing and grammatical sentence structure. Writers use parallel grammatical elements within one sentence or, more broadly, between and among different sentences in a paragraph, for effect : to emphasize ideas or themes , suggest connections, or highlight contrasts, all while adding rhythm to the structure of their expression.

Parallelism and Related Figures of Speech

While parallelism is itself a figure of speech, it can also be seen as a kind of "umbrella" category of a number of different figures of speech. Put another way: there are a number of figures of speech that make use of parallelism in specific ways. It's useful to know what these other terms mean, since technically speaking they are specific types of parallelism.

Parallelism and Antithesis

One literary device that often makes use of parallelism is antithesis . In antitheses, two elements of a sentence are placed in contrast to one another. This opposition is clearest when a writer puts the ideas in parallel positions. Neil Armstrong used antithesis with parallelism when he first stepped onto the surface of the moon in 1969, using the parallel structure of the two halves of his sentence to highlight the contrast between his "small step" and the "giant leap" that this step represented in the history of humanity.

That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind.

Parallelism and Anaphora

Another specific type of parallelism is anaphora . This figure of speech involves the repetition of at least one word at the beginning of successive clauses or phrases. In one of Winston Churchill's most famous speeches during World War II, he makes stirring use of anaphora :

.... We shall fight in France, we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air, we shall defend our island, whatever the cost may be. We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender...

Note that there are also other uses of parallelism in this excerpt of Churchill's speech that do not fall into the category of anaphora. The different locations that Churchill names ("on the beaches...on the landing grounds...in the fields and in the streets...in the hills") create parallelism through their grammatical similarity.

Parallelism and Asyndeton

In asyndeton , a conjunction (such as "and") is omitted between parts of a sentence to create a certain rhythm. Often, this is made possible by parallelism, which helps the reader to interpret the sentence's meaning even when it is not (technically) grammatically correct. In Julius Caesar's famous boast to the Senate after his victory at the Battle of Zela, he makes use of asyndeton because he omits the word "and" before the final clause.

Veni, vidi, vici : I came, I saw, I conquered.

Technically this omission of "and" makes the sentence an example of "comma splicing," which is a grammatical no-no, but the parallelism allows the meaning to come through and creates a pleasing rhythm.

Parallelism and Epistrophe

Epistrophe is the opposite of anaphora . Instead of repeated word(s) at the beginning of successive phrases, epistrophe involves repeating words at the end of successive phrases. Abraham Lincoln employed epistrophe when he declared in his Gettysburg Address that the Union was fighting to defend a government "of the people , by the people , for the people ." Again, this is an example of parallelism as well as epistrophe, since epistrophe is just a specific type of parallelism.

Parallelism Examples

Parallelism examples in literature.

Parallelism occurs frequently in poetry and prose, from ancient Hebrew poetry to contemporary fiction.

Parallelism in Psalms of the Old Testament

Parallelism is found throughout both the Old and New Testaments of the Christian Bible. In this pair of verses from Psalm 24, there are two examples of what biblical scholars call synonymous parallelism , meaning that the idea of the first clause is repeated and rephrased with a parallel grammatical structure in the second clause to emphasize or amplify the point.

The earth is the LORD's and everything in it , the world, and all who live in it ; for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters .

Parallelism in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar

In Shakespeare's Julius Caesar , Mark Antony is given the opportunity to speak at the funeral of his recently assassinated friend, Caesar. He uses this chance to incite a riot in the hopes of winning back control of the Senate from the conspirators who assassinated Caesar in the first place.

Friends, Romans, countrymen , lend me your ears; I come to bury Caesar , not to praise him . The evil that men do lives after them ; The good is oft interred with their bones ...

The first use of parallelism in Antony's speech comes in the list of nouns with which he calls the crowd to attention, naming their reasons to be loyal listeners as friends and patriotic citizens. Antony then uses parallelism again (with antithesis ) to state his intended purpose by contrasting the verbs "to bury" and "to praise." The third instance of parallelism is also an example of antithesis.

Parallelism in Ernest Hemingway's A Farewell to Arms

In this passage from A Farewell to Arms , Hemingway uses repetition and parallelism to create a rhythm that gives his simple style a precise and powerful effect. This repetition continues the matter-of-fact tone in which the narrator is describing the events of the war. This particular parallelism could also be called an example of epistrophe because its repetition occurs at the end of successive clauses.

Up the river the mountains had not been taken ; none of the mountains beyond the river had been taken . That was all left for next year.

Parallelism in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Paul Revere's Ride"

In this famous poem, Longfellow chronicles the ride of Paul Revere on his way to warn colonists of the attacking British soldiers. The first two instances of parallelism are simple repetitions of grammatical elements— first the repetition of a verb phrase, and then a series of adjectives . The third instance is also an example of antithesis (as well as anaphora , with the repetition of "now"). This third parallelism also sets the scene with the striking imagery of the horse's hooves.

He has left the village and mounted the steep And beneath him, tranquil and broad and deep , Is the Mystic, meeting the ocean tides; And under the alders, that skirt its edge, Now soft on the sand , now loud on the ledge , Is heard the tramp of his steed as he rides.

Parallelism in Jhumpa Lahiri's The Namesake

In this short excerpt from Jhumpa Lahiri's The Namesake , there are several examples of parallelism used to create rhythm within a sentence while elaborating on an idea. Here you can see how even without using the more elaborate versions of parallelism (anaphora, antithesis, asyndeton, etc.), the simple choice to use elements that are grammatically parallel within a sentence helps these sentences to flow effectively.

Without a single grandparent or parent or uncle or aunt at her side, the baby's birth, like most everything else in America, feels somehow haphazard , only half true . As she strokes and suckles and studies her son, she can't help but pity him. She has never known of a person entering the world so alone , so deprived .

Parallelism Examples in Rhetoric

Parallelism can add pleasing rhythm to speech that makes it seem more eloquent, can help to highlight or emphasize ideas, and through its use of repetition can make a speech more persuasive. No wonder politicians and other speech-makers use it all the time.

Parallelism in President John F. Kennedy's Inaugural Address

In his first speech to the American public as President, JFK explicitly sent a message to the nations of the world that the United States would undergo any difficulty to defend liberty around the world. In just this one sentence, he uses parallelism in a few places, two of which could also be classified as antitheses .

Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill , that we shall pay any price , bear any burden , meet any hardship , support any friend , oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.

Parallelism in President George W. Bush's Address to the Nation on Terrorism (September 20th, 2001).

In this speech, delivered just over a week after the attacks of September 11th, President Bush declared a "war on terror." There are three instances of parallelism in just these two sentences, with the first also being an example of anaphora , since it involves a repetition of words at the beginning of a phrase. The second and third uses of parallelism are lists whose parallel structures create rhythm and establishes a link between the many different responses to the terrorist attack.

We have seen the state of our Union in the endurance of rescuers, working past exhaustion. We've seen the unfurling of flags , the lighting of candles , the giving of blood , the saying of prayers —in English , Hebrew , and Arabic .

Parallelism Examples in Song

Parallelism is a common feature of many song traditions. Songwriters use parallelism to create rhythm and link ideas together.

Parallelism in "The House of the Rising Sun"

In this traditional folk song from the American South, made famous by The Animals, parallelism paints a picture of the singer's background, while contrasting his mother's honest profession (tailor) with his father's dishonest one (gamblin' man):

My mother was a tailor She sewed my new blue jeans My father was a gamblin' man Down in New Orleans.

Parallelism in "Days Like This" by Van Morrison

In this song , Van Morrison uses several forms of parallelism, including both anaphora and epistrophe —which, when used together, create symploce . This example makes the rhythmic potential of parallelism clear, and shows its usefulness in song-writing.

When it's not always raining there'll be days like this When there's no one complaining there'll be days like this When everything falls into place like the flick of a switch Well mama told me there'll be days like this .

Why Do Writers Use Parallelism?

Parallelism is an important tool at any writer's disposal, and can be used for a variety of purposes:

• To emphasize the relationship between two or more sentences in a paragraph, or two or more ideas within a single sentence.
• To compare or contrast two different things or ideas.
• To create a stronger sense of rhythm in a text.
• To drive home a point through repetition.
• To elaborate on an idea.

Notice how even the bulleted list above is an example of parallelism. It's easy to read in part because the grammatical structure of each line is identical, beginning with an infinitive ("to" + verb). Parallelism is everywhere because it's one of the rules of grammar that makes ideas (both simple and complex) easier to understand.

Other Helpful Parallelism Resources

• Sound bites from history: This website collects audio samples from speeches in American history, so that you can hear parallelism in action.
• University Webpage: This professor's page includes some helpful breakdowns of sentence structure and grammatically correct examples of parallelism.
• The Wikipedia Entry on Parallelism: A useful rundown of parallelism with relevant examples from throughout world history.

• Figure of Speech
• Internal Rhyme
• Juxtaposition
• Climax (Plot)
• End-Stopped Line
• Slant Rhyme
• Deus Ex Machina
• Connotation
• Understatement
• Alliteration

• Quizzes, saving guides, requests, plus so much more.