Spanish word

contraposición

Pronunciation

IPA/kontɾaposiˈθjon/

Meaning

  • feminine nounclash

Example

En la discusión, hubo una contraposición de opiniones.

In the discussion, there was a clash of opinions.

Illustration for contraposición (clash)

More examples

La contraposición de ideas aclaró el problema.

The clash of ideas clarified the problem.

Core concept

Two things placed facing each other to show opposition.

Common phrases

  • contraposición de opiniones

    clash of opinions

  • contraposición de ideas

    clash of ideas

Similar words

oposición: Active resistance or formal opposition to a policy, idea, or group.
confrontación: Immediate confrontation involving direct conflict or a hostile encounter.
conflicto: A prolonged disagreement or clash rooted in competing interests.
discrepancia: A disagreement or inconsistency in statements, data, or opinions.

Definition in Spanish

Acción o efecto de poner una cosa frente a otra para mostrar su oposición o diferencia.

Word origin

The word comes from Spanish contra 'against' and posición 'position' (from Latin positio 'placement'), literally 'placement against', which gives the sense of arranging elements in opposition.

Usage tips

  • It is used mainly in formal or argumentative contexts, so everyday speakers often use shorter alternatives like 'al contrario' or 'en cambio'.

Other meanings

  • oppositionnoun
  • contrastnoun

Opposites

Related words

  • contraponeropposeverb
  • contrapuestoopposedadjective

Word lists with this word