Antisentimental is a word that describes something or someone that lacks sentimentality or emotion. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˌænti.sɛnˈtɪməntəl/. The prefix "anti-" means against, while the root word "sentimental" combines "sentiment," meaning emotion, with the suffix "-al," meaning pertaining to. The word is spelled with a double "s" after the prefix "anti-" to indicate that the second syllable has primary stress. The final syllable is spelled with "-al" rather than "-ent" to show it is an adjective rather than a noun.
Antisentimental is an adjective that describes an attitude or perspective that opposes, rejects, or lacks sentimentality. Sentimentality refers to an excessive or exaggerated display of sentimental emotions, typically associated with being overly emotional, maudlin, or sappy. Antisentimental, on the other hand, signifies an absence or resistance to this sentimental display.
In various contexts, an antisentimental stance can be seen as a rejection of emotional manipulations, artificiality, or melodrama. People who adopt an antisentimental outlook tend to prioritize rationality and objectivity over sentimental or emotional appeals. They often aim to approach situations or experiences with a more detached, practical, or realistic frame of mind.
In literature, an antisentimental style may involve a deliberate avoidance of overly emotional or melodramatic portrayals. It can be characterized by a focus on raw, unidealized realities, gritty descriptions, and an objective narrative voice that avoids indulging in sentimentalism.
Similarly, in interpersonal relationships, an antisentimental person may be less inclined to express or show emotions publicly. They might prioritize more practical or logical approaches to problem-solving, decision-making, or expressing affection, rather than relying on sentimental gestures or displays.
Overall, antisentimental signifies a deliberate opposition to or lack of sentimentality, emphasizing a preference for rationalism, objectivity, and a down-to-earth perspective.
The word "antisentimental" is formed by combining the prefix "anti-" and the word "sentimental".
The prefix "anti-" is derived from the Greek word "antí", meaning "against" or "opposite". It is often used in English to indicate opposition or negation.
The word "sentimental" originates from the Latin word "sentimentalis", derived from "sentīre", meaning "to feel" or "to think". It initially referred to an expression of heightened emotion or feeling.
Combining these two elements, "antisentimental" is created to describe something that opposes or goes against sentimentality. It refers to a lack of or resistance to excessive or overly emotional feelings and expressions, often associated with a more practical, realistic, or rational perspective.