Pronunciation: [antˈɪθəsˌiːz] (IPA) 
The word "antitheses" is spelled with a "th" sound in the middle, even though it may seem like it should be spelled with a "t". This is because the word comes from the Greek language, where the "th" sound is represented by the letter theta. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /ænˈtɪθəsiz/. The plural form of "antithesis", this word refers to the contrast or opposition between two things, ideas, or concepts.
Antitheses refers to the plural form of the noun "antithesis." Antithesis is a literary and rhetorical device characterized by the juxtaposition of contrasting ideas, words, phrases, or sentences to create a striking contrast or opposition. It is derived from the Greek word "antithesis," meaning "opposition" or "contradiction."
In the realm of literature and rhetoric, antitheses are employed to highlight the stark differences between two concepts, thereby emphasizing their respective qualities and enhancing the overall effect of the writing or speech. By deliberately placing contrasting elements side by side, antitheses serve to draw attention to the distinctions between these elements and achieve a heightened sense of drama, power, or emphasis. This technique allows writers and speakers to convey complex ideas, highlight conflicts, or underscore the importance of certain concepts.
Antitheses are commonly employed not only in poetry, prose, and drama but also in everyday speech, often used to express contrasting concepts, such as "love and hate," "light and darkness," or "good and evil." Through this use of antithesis, the intended meaning of the contrasted ideas becomes more evident.
In summary, antitheses involve the juxtaposition of contrasting ideas or elements for the purpose of emphasizing their differences and making a point more effectively.
The word antitheses comes from the ancient Greek word antitithenai, which means to set against or to oppose. It is derived from the combination of anti- meaning against and tithenai meaning to place or to set. In Greek rhetoric, an antithesis refers to the use of contrasting ideas, words, or phrases in parallel structures to create a strong opposition or contrast. The word later entered Latin as antithesis and eventually became part of the English language as antitheses.
