Antagonize
easyNegative tonean-TAG-uh-nyz
verb
Definition
To cause someone to become hostile or angry
Memory hook
ANT-AGONIZE: The ANTAGONIST in a movie always antagonizes the hero.
Word roots
anti— against(Greek)
agonizesthai— to struggle(Greek)
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“His rude comments antagonized the entire team.”
“It's not wise to antagonize someone you need to work with.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“His rude comments ______ the entire team.”
Show answer
antagonized
Categories
GRE Tip
Antagonize is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "provoke" or "irritate" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "placate".
Related GRE Words
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