dialectic
/ˌdaɪ.əˈlek.tɪk/ IELTSAcademic
noun
A way of thinking or discussing ideas by comparing opposite views. It often means a process where one idea meets another and a clearer answer appears.
- The dialectic between freedom and safety shapes the debate.
- Her essay uses dialectic to compare two opposing ideas.
- The class discussed the dialectic of progress and tradition.
Adinary Nuance
Dialectic is not just a simple disagreement. It is a structured exchange between opposing ideas, often used in philosophy, writing, and academic debate. It is more formal and analytical than words like argument or debate, which can describe everyday conflict too.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- biện chứng
- Spanish
- dialéctica
- Chinese
- 辩证法
- Japanese
- 弁証法
- Korean
- 변증법
Etymology
From Greek dialectikē, meaning the art of conversation or discussion. It entered English through Latin and was used in philosophy and formal argument.
Common phrases
the dialectic of changethe dialectic between A and BHegelian dialecticthe dialectic process
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is dialectic the same as debate?
- Not exactly. A debate is a public discussion, while dialectic is a more structured clash of ideas.
- Is dialectic formal or informal?
- It is formal. You will mostly see it in academic, philosophical, or analytical writing.
- How do I use dialectic in a sentence?
- Use it for two opposing ideas that shape each other, like "the dialectic between work and rest."
- Is dialectic a common everyday word?
- No, it is fairly academic. Many speakers know it, but they use it mainly in formal contexts.