Antagonize (Verb)
Meaning 1
Act in opposition to.
Classification
Verbs of political and social activities and events.
Examples
- Refusing to listen to the opposing party's views only serves to antagonize them further in the negotiations.
- The rebels' continued attacks would antagonize the government, stirring more aggressive responses.
- Her stubbornness often antagonized her family members, leading to heated arguments at every gathering.
- Environmentalists are working to raise awareness about how pollution can antagonize local wildlife populations.
- Giving the problem more attention than necessary will only antagonize the situation, making it harder to find a solution.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
Provoke the hostility of; "Don't antagonize your boss".
Classification
Verbs of feeling.
Examples
- Her constant complaining was sure to antagonize her coworkers and create a tense work environment.
- Refusing to pay the ransom will only antagonize the kidnappers and put the hostages' lives at risk.
- The politician's divisive rhetoric began to antagonize many of her own supporters.
- His condescending attitude was likely to antagonize the students and make them less receptive to his teachings.
- If you continue to antagonize the neighbors with your loud music, they may call the police again.