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GCSE English Language · key term
The deliberate placing of contrasting ideas together to emphasise their difference.
Used by AQA, Edexcel and Eduqas
Paper 2
Placing contrasting ideas together to emphasise their difference.
Revise: Arguing a viewpointA focused claim: “widen … not narrow” uses antithesis to establish the contrast between worthwhile work and work that restricts opportunity. This supports AO5 because it expresses the viewpoint clearly and emphatically.
The placing of contrasting ideas close together to emphasise their opposition, often using balanced wording.
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Paper 2
Revise: Writing the text for a speechAntithesis, such as ‘Freedom should protect difference, not punish it’, makes a distinction memorable.
The placing of contrasting ideas close together, often in balanced phrasing, to sharpen a distinction.
Paper 1
A deliberate contrast between ideas, often expressed in balanced phrases or clauses.
Revise: Purpose, audience and registerAntithesis sharpens a distinction: ‘Not a reward for disruption, but an opportunity for participation.’
The deliberate contrast of opposing ideas, often expressed in a balanced sentence.
Component 2
The placing of contrasting ideas together to make their difference striking.
Revise: Writing a speech or talkAntithesis places opposing ideas together: ‘We need lasting habits, not temporary enthusiasm.’ The contrast sharpens the choice you want listeners to recognise.
The deliberate contrast of opposing ideas, often expressed through similar grammatical structures.
