Antagonize
easyan-TAG-uh-nyz
verb
Definition
To cause someone to become hostile or angry
Examples
“His rude comments antagonized the entire team.”
“It's not wise to antagonize someone you need to work with.”
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
apathy
Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern
outrage
An extremely strong reaction of anger, shock, or indignation
resentment
Bitter indignation at having been treated unfairly
chafe
To make sore by rubbing; to feel irritation or impatience
composed
Having one's feelings and expression under control; calm
elicit
To draw out or evoke a response, answer, or fact
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