noun

dialectic

dy-uh-LEK-tik

Quiz me More like this

Dialectic (noun) means a method of reasoning that reaches a conclusion through the exchange of opposing arguments. Example: “The seminar was run as a dialectic, with each side testing the other's claims.”

noun

A method of reasoning that reaches a conclusion through the exchange of opposing arguments.

"The seminar was run as a dialectic, with each side testing the other's claims."

"Socrates used dialectic to lead his students toward a clearer definition."

"Their essay style favors dialectic over simple assertion."

specialist A clash between opposing ideas that itself drives change or development, as in Hegelian and Marxist thought.

"The lecturer traced the dialectic between tradition and reform in the movement."

"In Marxist theory, history advances through a dialectic of class conflict."

"Their argument became a genuine dialectic rather than a simple disagreement."

How to use dialectic

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA back-and-forth of arguments used to work toward the truth.

When to use it

It belongs mainly to philosophical and academic writing rather than everyday speech.

Memory tip

Do not confuse it with 'dialect', which is about regional speech, not argument.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

dialect →

Common pairings

a dialectic between engage in dialectic Hegelian dialectic historical dialectic

Vocabulary Flow

Build your vocabulary from words like dialectic.

Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.

Start vocabulary practice

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “dialectic” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The seminar was run as a _____, with each side testing the other's claims.

Etymology

Dialectic reached English through Old French dialectique, itself from Late Latin dialectica. Behind that lies the Ancient Greek word for the art of argument through question and answer, which traces back to a verb meaning to take part in a dialogue, built from roots meaning 'through' and 'to speak'.

Origin: Old French

Rhymes for dialectic

hectic eclectic

See all rhymes for dialectic →

Frequently asked questions

What does dialectic mean?

It is a method of reasoning in which a conclusion is reached by weighing opposing arguments against each other.

Is dialectic the same as debate?

They are related, but dialectic is usually understood as a more structured, philosophical process aimed at truth rather than simply winning an argument.

Why is dialectic linked to Hegel and Marx?

Both used the word for the idea that development happens through a clash of opposing forces or ideas, a sense that has become closely associated with their philosophies.

What is the meaning of dialectic?

"dialectic" (noun) means a method of reasoning that reaches a conclusion through the exchange of opposing arguments.