What the f*ck is a Contronym?

A contronym is a word that can have two opposing definitions or meanings.

e.g. sanction which can be defined both as a). giving official permission or authority for an action and b). a penalty for breaking the law

• Their teacher sanctioned the student trip to the museum.

• The sanction for speeding in that town is $50.

For others, think of to cleave, bound, left, to buckle, fine, wind up, to dust or overlook. This peculiarity of English is just another reason why the language is oftentimes difficult for ESL learners.

Still more troubling are a few of the curse words in English. I'm sure you can think of some but try, sh*t or f*ck to start.

F*ck, no!

F*ck, yeah!

Not exactly contronyms however, the obvious message here is the same word used in contradictory statements.

Some refer to contronyms as, autoantonyms, but probably our favorite alternative is the term 'Janus words'. Referring to the ancient Roman god of beginnings and endings, Janus was imagined as having two faces on a single head peering in opposite directions.