C2nounformallanguagesociety
US/daɪˈkɑː.tə.mi/
UK/daɪˈkɒt.ə.mi/
a clear difference or division between two opposite things or ideas
In context
The novel explores the dichotomy between city life and village life.
Many experts call the choice between jobs and nature a false dichotomy.
Younger workers often reject the old dichotomy of work and family.
Words that go with dichotomy
adjective + noun
- false dichotomya choice between two options that are not really oppositeChoosing between work and family is a false dichotomy.
- sharp dichotomya very clear separation of two thingsThe film shows a sharp dichotomy between good and evil.
- traditional dichotomyan old, familiar division of two ideasThe traditional dichotomy of mind and body is now questioned.
noun + preposition
- dichotomy betweena clear division between two opposite thingsThere is a dichotomy between rich and poor areas of the city.