As a noun, dialectic is a method of discussion or reasoning that examines opposing ideas to reach a deeper truth. As an adjective, it relates to this kind of back-and-forth, often philosophical, argument.
From Greek "dialektikē (tekhnē)" meaning "the art of conversation or debate," from "dialegesthai" (to converse). It originally referred to skilled dialogue as a way to seek truth.
Dialectic treats truth as something you reach by clashing ideas together, not just stating opinions. Many big thinkers—from Plato to Hegel—used dialectic as a kind of mental laboratory where contradictions are the main tool.
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