at odds with

USAGE SUMMARY

"at odds with" is a valid expression used in formal English.
It is most commonly used to describe when two people or groups feel in conflict with one another. For example: "The two sides remain at odds with each other on the issue of gun control."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's at odds with reality.

The New York Times

And creativity is at odds with fealty.

The New Yorker

Moreover, they are at odds with themselves.

The Economist

The faculty was at odds with itself.

The New York Times

Thoroughness and precision at odds with readability.

Cornell University

She remains at odds with her family.

The New York Times

"I'm totally at odds with that view.

The New York Times

community at odds with the governing board.

The Washington Post

One that's at odds with Australia's politics?

The Guardian

That wish is at odds with reality.

The New York Times

But this sits at odds with us.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at odds with", ensure that the subjects being compared are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "The plan was at odds", specify "The plan was "at odds with" the company's objectives."

Common error

Avoid substituting "at odds with" for similar but distinct phrases like "at odds". "At odds" typically describes a state of disagreement, while "at odds with" specifies what the disagreement pertains to. For example, use "They are at odds" to mean they disagree, and "They are "at odds with" management" to specify the subject of the disagreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at odds with" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to describe a state of disagreement or conflict between two entities. As Ludwig's examples showcase, it links a subject with something it contradicts or opposes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

15%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at odds with" is a prepositional phrase used to express disagreement or conflict between two entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct, and it's very common in formal English, especially in news and media. While "at odds with" can be used in various contexts, it's essential to ensure clarity in defining the subjects being compared. Remember to use the complete phrase, specifying what the disagreement is pertaining to, not just "at odds". Consider alternatives like "in conflict with" or "contrary to" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in conflict with

Emphasizes a direct clash or struggle between two things.

in disagreement with

Focuses on a difference of opinion or perspective.

in opposition to

Highlights a stance against something, suggesting resistance.

contrary to

Indicates a direct contradiction or contrast.

incompatible with

Stresses the inability of two things to coexist or harmonize.

at variance with

Suggests a discrepancy or inconsistency.

inconsistent with

Highlights a lack of uniformity or agreement.

opposed to

Similar to "in opposition to", but can also refer to personal feelings.

clashing with

Implies a more forceful and jarring disagreement.

dissonant with

Focuses on a lack of harmony or agreement, often in a more abstract sense.

FAQs

How can I use "at odds with" in a sentence?

The phrase "at odds with" is used to indicate disagreement or conflict. For example, "His views are "at odds with" the party's platform" or "The company's actions are "in conflict with" its stated values".

What's the difference between "at odds" and "at odds with"?

"At odds" describes a state of disagreement or conflict without specifying what the disagreement is about. "At odds with" specifies the subject of the disagreement. For example, "They are at odds" vs. "They are "at odds with" each other".

What can I say instead of "at odds with"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "in conflict with", "in disagreement with", "contrary to", or "incompatible with".

Is it formal to say "at odds with"?

Yes, "at odds with" is appropriate for formal contexts. It is commonly used in news articles, academic papers, and business communications. More informal alternatives might include "clashing with" or simply "disagreeing with".