What are the antonyms for assonance?

There isn't a direct antonym for "assonance" in the same way there is for "consonance" (which is "dissonance"). This is because assonance is a specific literary device focusing on vowel sounds, whereas "dissonance" refers to a broader concept of unpleasant or jarring sounds.

However, depending on what you're trying to express, you could consider these options:

Focusing on sound contrast:

* Consonance: This focuses on the repetition of consonant sounds, offering a direct contrast to the vowel repetition in assonance.

* Dissonance: While it doesn't specifically target vowels, it implies a lack of harmonious sounds, which could be considered the opposite of the pleasing effect of assonance.

Focusing on the absence of repetition:

* Variation: This broadly refers to the use of diverse sounds and avoiding repetition.

* Heterophony: This specifically describes the use of different vowel sounds, which would directly oppose the repetition found in assonance.

Focusing on the intended effect:

* Dissonance: If assonance aims to create a pleasing or rhythmic effect, dissonance would aim to create a jarring or unpleasant effect.

* Harmony: This encompasses a broader sense of pleasing sounds, and would suggest a lack of assonance's distinct vowel repetition.

Ultimately, the "antonym" you choose will depend on the specific context and the effect you are aiming for.