dialectical
/ˌdaɪ.əˈlɛk.tɪ.kəl/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Based on discussion between opposing ideas or opinions. It often describes an argument, method, or way of thinking that examines both sides before reaching a conclusion.
- The teacher used a dialectical approach in class.
- Her essay takes a dialectical view of the issue.
- They reached a dialectical understanding of the conflict.
Adinary Nuance
Dialectical is not the same as simply argumentative. It usually means working through two opposite ideas in a structured way. It is also more formal than words like 'debated' or 'discussed'. Writers use it when they want to sound academic or philosophical.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- biện chứng
- Spanish
- dialéctico
- Chinese
- 辩证的
- Japanese
- 弁証法的
- Korean
- 변증법의
Etymology
From Greek dialektikos, from dialektos meaning 'conversation' or 'debate'. It entered English through scholarly writing, especially in philosophy.
Common phrases
dialectical thinkingdialectical methoddialectical relationship
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is dialectical a formal word?
- Yes. It is mainly used in academic, philosophical, or analytical writing.
- What is the difference between dialectical and dialect?
- Dialectical describes a way of thinking or arguing. A dialect is a local form of a language.
- Can I use dialectical in everyday speech?
- You can, but it may sound very formal or specialized in casual conversation.
- What does dialectical thinking mean?
- It means considering two opposite ideas together and looking for a deeper understanding.