Which option best defines antithesis and provides a classic example?

• A. A contrast of opposing ideas in balanced structure; example: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times."
• B. An exaggeration for emphasis.
• C. A figure of speech that asks a question.
• D. A substitution of a related concept for a name.

Answer: (A)

Antithesis is a rhetorical device that places opposite ideas in close, balanced parallel structure to highlight their contrast. The classic example is the line from Dickens: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” Here two opposing ideas are presented side by side in a mirrored rhythm, making the difference between them clear and memorable. The other choices describe different devices: exaggeration (hyperbole), a question (rhetorical question), and substituting a related concept for a name (metonymy). None of those capture the paired, balanced contrast that defines antithesis.