Words / C1

an-TAG-uh-nist/ænˈtæɡənɪst/

An antagonist opposes someone, especially the hero: the novel’s antagonist. Protagonist is the main character — the classic mix-up. Opponent is everyday; villain is more moral. Antagonise is the verb (make someone angry).

Meaning

A person who opposes someone else, especially the main character in a story.

Examples

• “The antagonist in the novel is a corrupt official.”
• “Readers liked the antagonist more than the hero.”
• “In this case the antagonist is a system, not a person.”

Good to know

the antagonist vs the protagonist. Everyday: opponent. Verb: antagonise.

Near in meaning

opponent

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