dialectic
- 01 C1 Advanced
n.a method of reasoning where you compare two different ideas to find a better understanding.
n.a formal system of reasoning that arrives at a truth through the exchange of logical arguments and the resolution of contradictions.
Simple“The professor explained the dialectic between freedom and security in modern society.”
In context“Socratic dialectic involves a series of questions designed to expose the contradictions in an opponent's initial assumptions.”
UsageOften used with the preposition 'between' to describe the relationship of two opposing concepts.
- 02 C2 Proficiency
n.the way two opposite things affect each other and cause change.
n.the existence or action of opposing social or intellectual forces, especially as a determining factor in their interaction.
Simple“There is a constant dialectic between tradition and progress in this city.”
In context“Marxist theory views history as a dialectic driven by the struggle between different economic classes.”
Teacher's tipIn this sense, it is often used to describe a process of change rather than just a style of talking.
- 03 C1 Advanced
adj.relating to the process of using logical arguments to find the truth.
adj.relating to or utilizing the method of dialectic; synonymous with 'dialectical'.
Simple“The author uses a dialectic approach to examine the history of the war.”
In context“The essay provides a dialectic analysis of the relationship between individual agency and social structure.”
Synonyms
From Old French dialectique, from Late Latin dialectica, from Ancient Greek διαλεκτική (dialektikḗ, “the art of argument through interactive questioning and answering”), from διαλεκτικός (dialektikós, “relating to dialogue”), from διαλέγομαι (dialégomai, “to participate in a dialogue”), from διά (diá, “through, across”) + λέγειν (légein, “to speak”).
From Latin dialecticus, from Ancient Greek δῐᾰλεκτῐκός (dĭălektĭkós).
From dialect + -ic.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.