same word has two exactly opposite meaning

[Infin1ty]

Hi everyone,

It is interesting that the English language possesses some words have two exactly opposite meaning. For example, the word virtual can mean both real and not real. Could you please tell me some other words like that? :) Many thanks.
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[Alan]

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Hi,

'Virtual' on its own suggests 'not quite' 'almost'. In a sentence like: There is a virtual state of war between these two countries, the idea is that they are not actually at war with each other but it is almost like a war between them. The expression 'virtual reality' suggests something which is trying to be real as in a TV screen where the people are in three dimensions and almost look real. You can see that there is a difference in meaning between 'virtual and 'real', I hope.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Present Simple

[Milanya]

clip - (1)cut off, (2) to attach or hold together with a clip
cleave - (1) To split with or as if with a sharp instrument, (2)to adhere, cling, or stick fast.
peruse - 1. to read or examine with care, 2. to browse or read in a leisurely way
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con·text - The part of a text or statement that surrounds a particular word or passage and determines its meaning.

[SkiIucK]

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/Ravel

[Infin1ty]

Thank you very much, Alan, Milanya and SkiIuck.
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Please feel free to correct me if you find any mistakes in my posts.

[Bulone]

[SkiIucK]

No, it's not, sorry.

There are even examples provided in the link you posted.

[Bulone]