The phrase “by contraries” is a commonly used expression in the English language. It is often used to describe a situation where two opposing forces or ideas are present, and they are equally powerful. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of the phrase “by contraries.”
Definitions
The phrase “by contraries” means that two opposing forces or ideas are present and equally powerful. It is often used to describe a situation where two things are so different that they seem to be the opposite of each other.
Origin
The phrase “by contraries” has been in use since the 16th century. It comes from the Latin phrase “contrarius,” which means “opposite” or “contrary.” The phrase was first used in English literature by the poet William Blake in his poem “The Marriage of Heaven and Hell.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “by contraries” means “by opposing or contrasting forces or principles.” The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines it as “by means of opposite or contrary actions or forces.”
Associations
The phrase “by contraries” is often associated with the idea of balance. It suggests that two opposing forces or ideas can exist in harmony and balance each other out. It is also associated with the idea of dialectics, where two opposing forces or ideas are in constant conflict and eventually lead to a synthesis.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “by contraries” include “by opposition,” “by contrast,” “by antithesis,” and “by contradiction.”
Antonyms
The antonyms of “by contraries” include “by agreement,” “by similarity,” and “by consensus.”
The same root words
The root word of “by contraries” is “contrary,” which means “opposite” or “contradictory.” Other words that share the same root word include “contradict,” “contravene,” and “contradiction.”
Example Sentences
- The artist created a beautiful painting by using by contraries colors and textures.
- The politician won the election by appealing to voters from by contraries parties.
- The author wrote a novel that explores the theme of by contraries forces in human nature.
In conclusion, the phrase “by contraries” is a powerful expression that describes a situation where two opposing forces or ideas are present and equally powerful. It is a concept that has been explored in literature, philosophy, and art for centuries. Understanding the meaning and origin of this phrase can help us appreciate its significance in our lives and the world around us.