are antithetical

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are antithetical" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two ideas, concepts, or things that are directly opposed or contrast sharply with each other. Example: "The philosophies of individualism and collectivism are antithetical, representing fundamentally different views on society and human nature."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Stylistically, they are antithetical.

The Guardian

Civilization and violence are antithetical concepts.

The New Yorker

Capitalist values are antithetical to Christian ones.

The New York Times

For Naím, micropowers are antithetical to megaplayers.

The Guardian

But conservationists have posited that commerce and conservation are antithetical.

The Economist

Immigrant advocates say the proposals are antithetical to American ideals.

The New York Times

He imagines we are antithetical and perhaps we are.

The New Yorker

The Chinese now believe North Korea's actions are "antithetical" to their national security interests, he said.

The New York Times

In fact, they are antithetical to what a certain percentage of the Afghan population wants.

The New York Times

Commerce and conservation are antithetical, especially with respect to such species as the tiger.

The Economist

All these are antithetical to Republicanism as it has recently come to be.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure that the subjects being compared are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. State explicitly what aspects are "antithetical" to each other for maximum clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "are antithetical" when you simply mean 'different' or 'distinct'. This phrase denotes a strong, fundamental opposition, not just a minor variation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are antithetical" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the relationship between two subjects as being fundamentally opposed or contradictory. This is supported by Ludwig and the numerous examples available.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

17%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are antithetical" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to denote a strong opposition or fundamental incompatibility between two subjects. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is commonly found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. While suitable for formal writing, it should be used judiciously to avoid overstating simple differences. Remember that its alternatives, such as "are diametrically opposed" or "are fundamentally incompatible", can offer nuanced expressions of contrast.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are diametrically opposed

Emphasizes the complete opposition, like opposite ends of a diameter.

are fundamentally incompatible

Highlights the impossibility of coexistence or agreement.

are mutually exclusive

Focuses on the inability of both things to be true or valid at the same time.

stand in direct contrast

Highlights the direct opposition between the two things.

are at odds

Indicates conflict or disagreement.

are in opposition

A more formal and direct way of expressing disagreement.

are contrary to

Indicates a direct contradiction or opposition.

are the inverse of

Highlights the exact opposite nature of the things being compared.

are poles apart

Emphasizes a wide divergence or difference.

are in conflict with

Implies a struggle or clash between the entities.

FAQs

How can I use "are antithetical" in a sentence?

Use "are antithetical" to describe two concepts or ideas that are fundamentally opposed. For example, "Individualism and collectivism "are antithetical" philosophies".

What are some alternatives to "are antithetical"?

Alternatives include "are diametrically opposed", "are fundamentally incompatible", or "are mutually exclusive" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "are antithetical" in formal writing?

Yes, "are antithetical" is suitable for formal writing as it is a precise and impactful way to express strong opposition. You can also use similar expressions like "are in opposition" or "are contrary to".

What's the difference between "are antithetical" and "are different"?

"Are different" simply means that two things are not the same. "Are antithetical" implies a much stronger contrast, suggesting that the two things are fundamentally opposed and cannot coexist or be reconciled.