Introducing Janus words: These puzzling words are their own opposites
Contranyms, or Janus words, are words with two opposite meanings, depending on the context in which they're used. Also known as antagonyms or auto-antonyms, these interesting words, of which there are at least more than a hundred, are nicknamed "Janus words" after the two-faced Roman god Janus, who was, among other things, the patron deity of transition and duality. Just like Janus, these words represent the beautiful duality and fluidity of language, where simple words can be used to express such a variety of ideas depending on their usage. Not only can knowing about contranyms help you with your vocabulary and word usage, it can also be a fun mind game figuring out all the different ways you can use everyday words. Curious? Read on to learn about some of the coolest contranyms in the English language.
2024-04-12T10:20:29Z
Ex-teacher jailed for six-and-a-half years for sex with schoolboys
Rebecca Joynes, 30, groomed the youngsters from the age of 15, and was on bail for sexual activity with the first child, Boy A, when she began having sex with the second, Boy B, who she went on to become pregnant by. Neither boy can be identified. Parents of both boys watched as Joynes, wearing a gold necklace, black padded jacket and with blonde highlights in her hair, visibly shook and broke down in tears as she was jailed at Manchester Crown Court.
2024-07-04T15:49:01Z