What does antinomically mean?
Antinomically is a formal adverb meaning in a manner that is contradictory or self-defeating, especially when two accepted principles, rules, or obligations conflict. A decision may be antinomically framed if it grants a person a right in one clause while withdrawing that right in another. The word is closely associated with an antinomy: a contradiction between two propositions, laws, or duties, often where satisfying one principle would violate the other. Its force is more specialized than that of contradictorily or paradoxically and usually implies a clash within an established system rather than a surprising result alone. Antinomically is consequently rare in ordinary conversation but useful in legal, philosophical, theological, and highly formal prose. It derives from the same Greek roots behind antinomy—anti-, meaning against, and nomos, meaning law—yet today it most often describes language or reasoning that conflicts with itself or with another governing principle. It is especially effective for naming contradictions that are built into rules rather than merely accidental mistakes in speech or thought.
adverbIn a self-contradictory manner, especially by placing two rules or principles in conflict. It can also describe conduct or reasoning contrary to law.
- In a self-contradictory manner or in a way that sets two principles, rules, or duties against one another.
- In a manner contrary to law or established authority.
"The two clauses are antinomically opposed: each grants a right while implicitly denying it."
"The two clauses are antinomically opposed: each grants a right while implicitly denying it."
"The decree was antinomically framed, authorizing an action while formally prohibiting the same conduct."
Sometimes the contradiction is built into the rule itself; antinomically names that collision of principles.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does antinomically come from?
Antinomically belongs to the vocabulary of antinomical, antinomic, and antinomy. These words ultimately derive from the Greek anti-, meaning against, and nomos, meaning law, reflecting the original idea of opposition to law or governing principle. The modern adverb is used especially for reasoning or language in which two principles contradict one another.
How antinomically is actually used
Rare, formal, and chiefly used in legal, philosophical, theological, or highly formal prose. It is more specialized than contradictorily because it suggests a conflict between governing principles or authorities.
Easily confused with antinomically
Antinomically describes self-contradictory reasoning or conflicting rules, whereas antinomian relates to the theological doctrine that believers may be exempt from moral law.