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Featured Word C1

antagonist (verb)

To act in opposition to someone or something, or to provoke hostility and anger through specific actions or behavior. It involves intentionally or unintentionally creating an adversary or causing someone to become unfriendly.

💬 Example

"Try not to antagonize your little brother while he is trying to finish his homework."

💡 Memory Tip

Imagine a grumpy 'ANT' who always tries to 'AGONIZE' (annoy/oppose) everyone around him. He's the ultimate 'ant-agonize'...

🏛️ Origin

🔗 Synonyms
provoke alienate irritate offend incense
⚠️ Common Mistakes

Using 'antagonize' for simple annoyance. → Using 'annoy' or 'irritate' for milder displeasure.

Confusing the subject and object. → Ensuring the subject is the one performing the action of provoking hostility.