Repel vs. Repulse

Attribute	Repel	Repulse
Definition	To push away	To cause disgust or aversion
Physical Force	Acts to push objects apart	Does not involve physical force
Emotional Response	Can be neutral or positive	Generally negative
Usage	Commonly used in physics and relationships	Commonly used in describing negative reactions

Introduction

Repel and repulse are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings and connotations. In this article, we will explore the attributes of both words and compare them in various contexts to understand their differences and similarities.

Definition and Usage of Repel

The word "repel" is commonly used to describe the action of driving something away or resisting it. It can refer to physical objects pushing against each other, such as magnets repelling each other due to their opposite charges. In a more abstract sense, repel can also mean to reject or refuse something, like repelling an unwanted advance or repelling negative energy.

Repel can also be used in a metaphorical sense, such as repelling criticism or repelling doubts. In this context, it implies a strong resistance or defense against something unwanted or harmful. Overall, repel conveys a sense of pushing away or resisting something that is perceived as negative or undesirable.

Definition and Usage of Repulse

On the other hand, the word "repulse" is often used to describe a strong feeling of disgust or aversion towards something. It can also mean to drive back or repel an attack or assault. In a military context, repulse is often used to describe a successful defense against an enemy's advance.

Repulse can also be used to describe a strong emotional reaction, such as repulsing at the sight of something gruesome or repulsing at the thought of a particular action. In this sense, repulse conveys a sense of strong revulsion or rejection towards something that is perceived as repugnant or offensive.

Comparison of Attributes

While both repel and repulse involve the idea of pushing away or resisting something, they differ in their connotations and nuances. Repel tends to imply a more general sense of resistance or defense against something unwanted, while repulse conveys a stronger sense of disgust or aversion towards something offensive.

• Repel is often used in a physical context, such as repelling objects or forces, while repulse is more commonly used in an emotional or psychological context, such as repulsing at something unpleasant.
• Repel can also be used in a metaphorical sense, such as repelling doubts or criticism, while repulse is more focused on a visceral reaction of disgust or revulsion.

Examples in Literature

Both repel and repulse are frequently used in literature to convey different emotions and reactions. In Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," the character Hamlet often repels the advances of his mother, Queen Gertrude, due to his feelings of disgust and betrayal. On the other hand, the character of Lady Macbeth in "Macbeth" is often repulsed by her own actions and the consequences of her ambition.

These examples illustrate how repel and repulse can be used to convey complex emotions and reactions in literary works. While both words have similar meanings, their usage can evoke different shades of emotion and nuance in the context of a story or poem.

Conclusion

In conclusion, repel and repulse are two words that share a common theme of pushing away or resisting something, but they have distinct connotations and nuances. Repel tends to imply a general sense of resistance or defense against something unwanted, while repulse conveys a stronger feeling of disgust or aversion towards something offensive.

Both words are versatile and can be used in various contexts to convey different emotions and reactions. Whether used in a physical, emotional, or metaphorical sense, repel and repulse offer writers a rich vocabulary to express a wide range of feelings and experiences.