at opposite ends

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at opposite ends" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two things that are located or positioned far apart from each other, either physically or metaphorically. Example: "The two opinions on the matter were at opposite ends of the spectrum, making it difficult to reach a consensus."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Poe and Thoreau, "at opposite ends of American thought..

Huffington Post

The two are at opposite ends of the political divide.

University of California, Berkeley

We sat at opposite ends of the sofa, not talking.

The New York Times

Two yachts are at opposite ends of the scale.

Independent

They are at opposite ends of the hotel.

Independent

They're just at opposite ends of the same continuum.

The New York Times - Arts

They sit on the bed, at opposite ends.

The Guardian - Books

Both Russians sat at opposite ends of the packed courtroom.

The Guardian - Sport

They'll start at opposite ends and work toward the middle.

The New Yorker

In the counterflow arrangement of Figure 18.8(b), the fluids enter at opposite ends, flow in opposite directions, and leave at opposite ends.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Trehalose binds in two sites at opposite ends of the active-site cleft.

Journal of Molecular Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at opposite ends", ensure the context clearly establishes the spectrum or range being referenced. For example, "at opposite ends of the political spectrum" clarifies the range of political ideologies.

Common error

Avoid using "at opposite ends" without clearly defining the scale or spectrum. For instance, saying "they are at opposite ends" is vague without specifying what they are at opposite ends of.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at opposite ends" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate location or position. It is used to describe things that are located at the farthest extremes of something, whether physically or conceptually, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

27%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at opposite ends" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to emphasize contrast or extreme differences between two entities. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and science. To ensure clarity, always specify the spectrum or scale when using this phrase. Common alternatives include "polar opposites" and "diametrically opposed". Remember that context is key to effective communication and by mastering how to use "at opposite ends" correctly, you'll avoid possible vagueness in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at polar opposites

Directly states the opposing nature, indicating maximum contrast.

on opposite sides

Focuses on the separation and contrast between two distinct sides or viewpoints.

in stark contrast

Emphasizes the clear and obvious difference between the two entities.

at opposing extremes

Highlights the extremity and conflict or contrast between the two positions.

at contrary positions

Highlights the contradictory nature of the two positions or viewpoints.

at divergent points

Emphasizes the difference as a deviation from a common origin or path.

at distant poles

Uses 'poles' metaphorically to represent extreme and contrasting positions.

at inverse locations

Stresses the reversed or opposite nature of the positions.

at remote boundaries

Indicates a great distance or separation, emphasizing the extreme nature of the difference.

in conflicting realms

Suggests a fundamental disagreement or incompatibility between the two domains.

FAQs

How can I use "at opposite ends" in a sentence?

You can use "at opposite ends" to describe items, ideas, or positions that are as different as possible from each other within a certain range or spectrum. For example, "The two siblings were "at opposite ends" of the personality spectrum".

What are some alternatives to "at opposite ends"?

Alternatives include "polar opposites", "diametrically opposed", or "on opposite sides", depending on the specific context.

Which is more appropriate, "at opposite ends" or "at opposing ends"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "at opposite ends" is more common. "At opposing ends" might imply a more direct conflict or resistance, while "at opposite ends" simply denotes the extremities of a spectrum.

Is it always necessary to specify what is meant when using "at opposite ends"?

While not always mandatory, specifying the spectrum or range clarifies your meaning and avoids ambiguity. For instance, stating "at opposite ends of the spectrum" is clearer than just saying ""at opposite ends"".