CONTRANYMS: The English language can be F.U.N. — frustrating, unruly and (seemingly) nonsensical. We agree that it must be difficult to learn as a second language.

Contranyms are one of those reasons. They are words that are their own opposites, also known as Janus words or antagonyms.

We’ll start with sanction. It can mean to permit something, or to penalize someone. Like a boxing match would be sanctioned by the state athletic commission. Yet, should Mike Tyson bite Evander Holyfield’s ear, he would be sanctioned for it.

Weather — The shed weathered the storm, meaning it withstood the storm. The weathered shed collapsed, meaning the shed was eroded by the elements.

Left — We left home at 6 a.m., and left the dog home. The first means departed from, while the second means remained behind.

Are you getting the idea? We have more examples.

Bound — Going somewhere or tied/restricted from going anywhere. We’re bound for the beach. The endless rain keeps us bound to the house.

Dust — If you read Amelia Bedelia books, you’d know this one. It can mean to remove dust or to sprinkle dust. Amelia Bedelia, a character in children’s books written by Peggy Parish, was a maid who always did things incorrectly. If she was told to dust the living room, she would sprinkle dust all over it.

Clip — To attach things, or to cut them apart. You clip coupons, but clip the paperwork together.

Strike — This one is kind of fun. A boxer strikes his opponent. A baseball player strikes out. So it’s a hit but not a hit.

Flog — To promote aggressively or to beat severely.

Like we said, English is fun.