Antimonies

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A clash or contradiction between two principles or conclusions that cannot coexist harmoniously in logic or philosophy
2. A situation or circumstance where opposing views or beliefs stand in direct conflict with one another, resulting in a paradox
3. An instance in which two contradictory aspects or theories coexist, creating a dilemma that challenges reasoning and understanding

Etymology: "Antimonies" is the plural of "antimony," the metalloid element, but this plural is used in a different sense: an apparent logical contradiction, as in Kant's "antinomies." The plural form is a sign that the word has shifted from its chemical meaning into philosophical and logical usage. The plural makes sense here because it refers to a pair of conflicting propositions, each of which seems equally provable. The element's name, "antimony," comes from Medieval Latin "antimonium," attested in the 11th century. The origin of that Latin term is uncertain, and popular explanations linking it to monks or to the idea of being "against being alone" are folk etymologies without solid support. What is clear is that the word was applied to the substance long before any link to contradiction appeared, and the logical sense is a later, separate development in English usage.

Synonyms: contradictions, conflicts, discrepancies, oppositions, paradoxes

Antonyms: agreements, consistencies, congruities, harmony, accords