Confront

Definition

Confront means to face someone or something, often in a challenging or hostile manner. It can involve addressing a problem or person directly and forcefully. The term is used when dealing with difficult situations, opposition, or conflict.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈfrʌnt/
• Respelling: kuhn-FRUHNT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈfrʌnt/
• Respelling: kuhn-FRUHNT

Etymology

The word "confront" comes from the Latin "confrontare," meaning "to stand in front of." It is derived from "con-" (with) and "frons" (forehead or face). The word entered English in the late 16th century and retained its meaning of facing something head-on, especially in a challenging or oppositional manner.

Derivatives

• Confrontation (noun)
• Confrontational (adjective)
• Confronting (verb)
• Confronted (verb)
• Non-confrontational (adjective)

Synonyms

• Challenge
• Oppose
• Face

Antonyms

• Avoid
• Evade
• Submit

Usage

The verb "confront" is often used when describing situations in which a person or group must deal with an issue or challenge directly. It can refer to facing a person in an argument, dealing with a difficult situation, or acknowledging an unpleasant truth. For example, "She had to confront her fear of public speaking" or "They confronted the issue in the meeting."

Related Terms

• Dispute: A disagreement or argument, often public or formal.
• Conflict: A serious disagreement or argument, typically a prolonged one.
• Resolution: The process of solving or resolving a dispute or conflict.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To face or deal with something directly: Refers to addressing an issue, person, or situation head-on, often in a challenging manner.
  • Example: "He confronted the manager about the unfair working conditions."
• To oppose or challenge someone: Involves standing up to someone or something in conflict or opposition.
  • Example: "The protesters confronted the police during the demonstration."
• To make someone face a difficult situation or truth: Refers to forcing someone to deal with something they may be avoiding or denying.
  • Example: "She was finally confronted with the consequences of her actions."