Langimage
English

antinomical

|an-ti-nom-i-cal|

C2

🇺🇸

/ˌæn.tɪˈnɑː.mɪ.kəl/

🇬🇧

/ˌæn.tɪˈnɒm.ɪ.kəl/

against law / contradiction between principles

Etymology
Etymology Information

'antinomical' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'antinomia', where 'anti-' meant 'against' and 'nomos' meant 'law'.

Historical Evolution

'antinomical' changed from Late Latin and Old French forms such as 'antinomia'/'antinomie', entered English via the noun 'antinomy', and was formed into the adjective 'antinomical' in Modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'against law' or 'involving a contradiction of laws/principles', and over time it came to be used more broadly for contradictions between principles or for things opposing established doctrine.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

relating to or characterized by an antinomy; involving a contradiction between two principles or conclusions that appear equally valid.

The paper examined antinomical tensions within the theory, showing how two plausible premises led to incompatible conclusions.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

contrary to law, established doctrine, or moral principle; opposing or rejecting a rule or legal/moral norm.

The activist's antinomical stance challenged conventional legal interpretations.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/09/05 09:30