Antagonize
/ænˈtæɡəˌnaɪz/
To make someone feel angry or upset by saying or doing things that bother them, which can lead to arguments or fights.
Examples
- When teammates argue over the best strategy during a soccer match, it can antagonize the whole group and make it harder for everyone to work together toward a common goal.
- In a classroom debate, if one student constantly interrupts others and dismisses their ideas, it can antagonize their classmates and create a tense atmosphere instead of a respectful discussion.
- While reading a book about friendship, I learned that making fun of someone's interests can antagonize them and lead to misunderstandings that hurt relationships.
Synonyms
provoke
irritate
annoy
offend
upset
instigate
Antonyms
calm
soothe
pacify
reconcile
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