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What is the antonym of the word 'addiction'?

Posted by HelloAnnie • 3/07/09 • Subscribe to this Discussion [RSS] • Report This Topic
Topics: addiction, antonym

I have been trying to find the opposite word for 'addiction' to describe the passion for work with purpose, meaning and value. And still put in a lot of time and effort.

I have suggestions:
- dependency
- indifference

Sometimes, when someone works too hard, you say he is a workaholic. But how do you know if someone is not? Maybe he is just being addictive.

What do you suggest?

User Comments

3/07/09

mpbabaji

I dont think a word exists..
Maybe you can Pen it.

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3/07/09

Anok

Well, do you mean you're trying to find a word that defines a person who works hard because they love their work, and not simply because they are codependent on it or emotionally addicted to work?

I think that word would be "passionate" or "Dedicated". Neither of which are antonyms for addicted, but they do convey a love and passion for their work, and not an obsessive need to work.

[reply]
1. 3/07/09
  
  mpbabaji
  
  Passionate fits.
3/07/09

legbamel

My first response was "aversion", but then I read your post. I don't see anything wrong with "passionate". Indifference means that you don't care about something, and that clearly isn't what you're trying to portray. "Dedicated" or "perfectionist" imply an emotional commitment to a job (as does "committed") without bringing the negative associations of addiction.

[reply]
3/07/09

HelloAnnie

Thanks for the suggestions.

"passionate" is probably the closest word to describe
- "an emotional committment to a job without bringing the negative associations of addiction."
- "convey a love and passion for their work, and not an obsessive need to work."

These are great suggestions.

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