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Antagonists Meaning in English

word · lemma: antagonist

ænˈtæɡənəsts
an-TAG-uh-nists
æntˈæɡənˌɪsts
an-TAG-uh-nists

Definition

Antagonists are people, characters, or forces that oppose or compete with someone or something, especially the main character in a story.

Usage & Nuances

Most common in literature, film, and stories where 'antagonists' are the main opponents of the protagonist. Can also refer more generally to rivals or opposing forces. In scientific or medical contexts, can mean a substance that interferes with another, but this is much less common in daily use.

Example Sentences

The antagonists in the movie were very clever.

basic

Many stories have strong antagonists to challenge the hero.

basic

The book describes the antagonists' motives.

basic

Her favorite films are the ones where the antagonists aren't just evil, but have complex reasons for their actions.

natural

Without interesting antagonists, a story can feel flat and boring.

natural

The director said the film works because the antagonists are as memorable as the heroes.

natural