dichotomy

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Definitions from WordNet

Noun dichotomy has 1 sense

dichotomy, duality - being twofold; a classification into two opposed parts or subclasses; "the dichotomy between eastern and western culture"
--₁ is a kind of classification, categorization, categorisation

Derived form: verb dichotomize₁

Definitions from the Web

dichotomy

Noun: A division or contrast between two things that are or are represented as being opposed or entirely different.

Sense 1: The dichotomy between good and evil is a timeless theme in literature and mythology.

Sense 2: The ongoing debate highlights the dichotomy between economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Adjective: Characterized by or consisting of dichotomy.

Sense 1: The author's writing style is dichotomous, switching between uplifting and dark themes.

Verb: Divide into two contrasting or opposing groups or entities.

Sense 1: The political party's controversial decision dichotomized its supporters, leading to internal conflicts.

Sense 2: The survey dichotomized the participants based on their age and gender.

Examples

The dichotomy between freedom and control is a major theme in political philosophy.
The film explores the dichotomy of love and hate through its complex characters.
The article discusses the dichotomy of tradition and innovation in the fashion industry.