Meaning of "gainsayer" in English

A "gainsayer" is someone who opposes or contradicts others, often challenging or denying accepted beliefs or opinions. This term is typically used in formal contexts to describe individuals who are argumentative or express dissent against mainstream viewpoints. A gainsayer might question the status quo, debate the efficacy of certain policies, or challenge authoritative opinions. The word evokes a sense of defiance, as it suggests a willingness to speak out against prevailing ideas. Gainsayers can thus be seen as critical thinkers or skeptics, often prompting valuable discussions by providing alternative perspectives.

Meaning of "gainsayer" in French

In French, "gainsayer" also refers to a person who contradicts or opposes others. This term can describe someone who frequently challenges widely held beliefs or established doctrines. In a similar vein to its English meaning, a gainsayer in French context might be someone who is perceived as challenging authority or tradition, encouraging debate or skepticism about accepted norms. Often viewed as either a disruptor or a critical thinker, a gainsayer's role can be crucial in prompting re-evaluation and dialogue in various social or political settings.

Pronunciation of "gainsayer" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈɡeɪnˌseɪ.ər/

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "gainsayer" may slightly vary with regional accents. In British English, the "r" at the end might be softer or even silent compared to American English, where the "r" is typically more pronounced.

Pronunciation of "gainsayer" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /ɡɛ̃seje/

Pronunciation Variations: In French, the pronunciation of "gainsayer" remains fairly consistent across regions, although slight intonation differences may be observed between different parts of France or French-speaking countries.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The gainsayer challenged the mayor's decision in the town hall meeting. (Le gainsayer a contesté la décision du maire lors de la réunion municipale.)

  2. She was known as a gainsayer who often questioned traditional customs. (Elle était connue comme une gainsayer qui remettait souvent en question les coutumes traditionnelles.)

  3. The gainsayer raised a valid point during the committee's discussion. (Le gainsayer a soulevé un point valable pendant la discussion du comité.)

  4. Despite being a gainsayer, his suggestions were appreciated by the group. (Bien qu'il soit un gainsayer, ses suggestions ont été appréciées par le groupe.)

  5. The gainsayer's arguments led to a lively debate. (Les arguments du gainsayer ont mené à un débat animé.)

  6. Many viewed him as a troublesome gainsayer. (Beaucoup le considéraient comme un gainsayer gênant.)

  7. The gainsayer refused to accept the proposed changes without scrutiny. (Le gainsayer a refusé d'accepter les changements proposés sans les examiner.)

  8. Her role as a gainsayer kept the organization on its toes. (Son rôle de gainsayer a maintenu l'organisation en alerte.)

  9. The young gainsayer questioned the teacher's explanation. (Le jeune gainsayer a contesté l'explication du professeur.)

  10. As a gainsayer, she pushed for a more evidence-based approach. (En tant que gainsayer, elle a poussé pour une approche plus basée sur des preuves.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "gainsayer" in English

Synonyms: opponent, dissenter, contrarian, challenger, objector, critic, disputer, skeptic, antagonist, nay-sayer.

Antonyms: supporter, advocate, proponent, ally, backer, believer, endorser, follower, champion, adherent.

Similar Words: critic, disputant, opposer, negator, debater, nonconformist, protester, rebel, questioner, dissentient.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "gainsayer" in French

Synonyms: contestataire, contradicteur, opposant, sceptique, critique, disparateur, objecteur, détracteur, adversaire, contestateur.

Antonyms: partisan, défenseur, partisan, soutien, allié, croyant, promoteur, approbateur, sympathisant, adhérent.

Similar Words: critique, contestataire, polémiste, contestateur, dissident, sceptique, contradicteur, protestataire, rebelle, débatteur.

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