dichotomous

[ dih-kot-uh-muhs ]

adjective

1. divided or dividing into two parts.
2. of or relating to dichotomy.

Other Words From

• di·choto·mous·ly adverb
• di·choto·mous·ness noun
• nondi·choto·mous adjective
• nondi·choto·mous·ly adverb
• undi·choto·mous adjective
• undi·choto·mous·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of dichotomous¹

1680–90; < Late Latin dichotomos < Greek dichótomos. See dicho-, -tome, -ous

Example Sentences

In the paper, the authors argued that stress amplifies dichotomous thinking — essentially a black and white worldview.

From Salon

She calls on us to find an island between the dichotomous “sides” of this conflict.

From Seattle Times

But for those who seek out "relatability" via their housewives viewing habits, enjoy Barlow's dichotomous epicurean tastes or are just immense fans of fast food, it doesn’t get much better than LB.

From Salon

Alexandra Chang explores that dichotomous sense of the personal and political in her novel "Days of Distraction."

From Salon

"Stress-boosted dichotomous thinking may thus well be a fundamental driver of belief rigidity," the authors wrote.

From Salon