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noun

dichotomy

dye-KOT-uh-mee

Dichotomy (noun) means a division into two parts that are treated as opposed or entirely separate. Example: “The old dichotomy between work and home has blurred.”

noun
1
A division into two parts that are treated as opposed or entirely separate.
"The old dichotomy between work and home has blurred."

How to use dichotomy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA split between two things treated as opposites.

Memory tip

Greek "cut in two" — di- (two) like in dioxide.

Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
false dichotomy a clear dichotomy the dichotomy between
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The old _____ between work and home has blurred.

Etymology

From Greek "dikhotomia," a cutting in two, from "dikha" (in two) plus "temnein" (to cut).

Origin: Greek

Related words

Rhymes for dichotomy

See all rhymes for dichotomy →

Frequently asked questions

What does dichotomy mean?

A split into two parts presented as opposites — mind and body, work and life, nature and nurture. Calling something a dichotomy often hints that the division is too neat to be true.

What is a false dichotomy?

Presenting only two options as though they were the only possibilities when others exist. It is a common rhetorical fallacy, also called a false dilemma.

What is the meaning of dichotomy?

"dichotomy" (noun) means a division into two parts that are treated as opposed or entirely separate.

What is another word for dichotomy?

Other words for "dichotomy" include division, split, contrast, polarity.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial · etymology from FreeDict original editorial