are diametrically opposed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are diametrically opposed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two ideas, opinions, or positions that are completely opposite to each other. Example: "Their views on climate change are diametrically opposed, making it difficult to find common ground."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Their business objectives are diametrically opposed.

The Guardian

Gvasalia and Michele's aesthetics are diametrically opposed.

The New York Times

You'll notice first that these two viewpoints are diametrically opposed.

The New York Times

The extremists are diametrically opposed to the EU's founding values.

The Guardian - Arts

But, of course, these two explanations are diametrically opposed.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Private profit and public health are diametrically opposed.

The Guardian - Business

The two sets of aims are diametrically opposed.

The Guardian - Business

Climate policy is an area where the two major presidential candidates are diametrically opposed.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

At first glance, biology and computer science are diametrically opposed sciences.

Biosystems

Because the ways flavors are developed in these two regions are diametrically opposed.

The New York Times - Food

The societies that City Ballet and American Realness offer in performances, however, are diametrically opposed.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are diametrically opposed", ensure that the context clearly establishes the two opposing elements. Provide specific details to illustrate the stark contrast between them for maximum impact.

Common error

Avoid using "are diametrically opposed" when the contrast is merely a difference in degree. This phrase implies complete opposition, not just a slight disagreement or variation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are diametrically opposed" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a subject (two ideas, concepts, etc.) as being in complete opposition. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is appropriate for denoting irreconcilable differences. The examples show it commonly links subjects to their conflicting attributes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are diametrically opposed" effectively conveys a sense of complete opposition between two entities, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is used in a variety of contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing, where clear and precise language is essential. While alternatives such as "are completely opposite" or "are fundamentally different" exist, "are diametrically opposed" brings a certain gravitas, emphasizing the irreconcilable nature of the contrast. Remember to use it when the situation truly involves complete opposition, avoiding it for mere differences in degree.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are completely opposite

Emphasizes the total opposition between two things, focusing on their distinct nature.

are fundamentally different

Highlights that the difference lies in the core or foundation of the two things being compared.

are mutually exclusive

Indicates that the two things cannot coexist or be true at the same time.

are directly contrary

Stresses a head-on opposition, suggesting that one is the direct negation of the other.

are in direct opposition

Similar to "directly contrary", but focuses more on the state of being opposed.

are poles apart

Uses a spatial metaphor to describe how far apart the two things are in terms of difference.

are worlds apart

Similar to "poles apart", but perhaps suggesting a more significant and encompassing difference.

are at opposite ends of the spectrum

Emphasizes the placement of the two things on extreme ends of a range or scale.

are antithetical to each other

Highlights that the two things are fundamentally opposed in nature, being complete opposites.

represent opposing viewpoints

Focuses specifically on differing perspectives or opinions, rather than a general opposition.

FAQs

How can I use "are diametrically opposed" in a sentence?

Use "are diametrically opposed" to describe two things that are completely opposite. For example: "Their political ideologies "are diametrically opposed", making compromise difficult."

What can I say instead of "are diametrically opposed"?

You can use alternatives like "are completely opposite", "are fundamentally different", or "are mutually exclusive" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "are diametrically opposed" or "are diametrically opposite"?

"Are diametrically opposed" is the more common and accepted phrasing. While "are diametrically opposite" is understandable, it is less frequently used.

What's the difference between "are diametrically opposed" and "are strongly opposed"?

"Are diametrically opposed" implies a complete and irreconcilable opposition, while "are strongly opposed" suggests a significant disagreement but not necessarily a total contradiction.