complementary opposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complementary opposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing contrasting ideas or forces that enhance or complete each other. Example: "In the debate about climate change, the concepts of economic growth and environmental protection often represent a complementary opposition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

If one is going to evaluate Mailer's and Buckley's complementary opposition to the liberal ethos of their time, one ought to carry the examination toward a conclusion as grim as it is inescapable: both men lost.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Surely these aims are complementary, not in opposition to each other".

Independent

The nonrandom mutation considered here and natural selection are complementary, in diametric opposition to the above rivalry.

Biology Direct

Many Sunnis said their vote was complementary and not in opposition to the "resistance" against foreign occupation.Mr Allawi's supporters played on widespread complaints that the present UIA-led government has failed to provide better infrastructure and security and more jobs, and has packed ministries with its own followers.

The Economist

The traditional and EDA approaches are complementary and not in opposition.

CBE Life Sciences Education

In eastern philosophy, systems like nature and the human body are made stronger by dualities, forces that appear to be in opposition but are complementary.

The Economist

Their opposition is obvious; they are complementary in their Melvillian vastness and emptiness.

The New York Times - Books

Complementaries are colour opposites.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The trio of midfielder Koke, creative wide man Arda Turan and French forward Antoine Griezmann possess a complementary range of skills and are talented enough to trouble any opposition.

BBC

There is thus no opposition between individual and collective EHR use, but rather complementary usage modes, both contributing to improved quality of the healthcare system.

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

The opposition thinking, its promotion of society formed by active individuals, developed along complementary concepts.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be aware of the potential for misinterpretation and ensure the context clarifies that the opposition is, in fact, beneficial or necessary.

Common error

Avoid using "complementary opposition" when you simply mean disagreement or conflict without any constructive or synergistic aspect. The phrase implies a deeper, more complex relationship than simple antagonism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complementary opposition" functions as a noun phrase acting as a descriptor. It identifies a specific type of relationship where seemingly contradictory elements enhance each other, as demonstrated by Ludwig examples, where diverse skills complement each other to troube any opposition.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "complementary opposition" is used to describe seemingly contradictory forces or ideas that, in fact, work together synergistically. Though grammatically correct, its uncommon usage suggests a need for careful contextualization. Ludwig highlights its presence in news, science and encyclopedic contexts. To avoid misinterpretations, reserve its use for situations where the "opposition" truly contributes to a greater balance or understanding. Alternatives like "harmonious contradiction" may offer more clarity in certain situations. The Ludwig AI confirms the validity and utility of the phrase, provided it is deployed with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

harmonious contradiction

Focuses on the balance achieved despite the contradiction.

balanced antagonism

Emphasizes the equilibrium between opposing forces.

cooperative conflict

Highlights the collaborative nature within the opposition.

constructive disagreement

Suggests that the disagreement leads to positive outcomes.

integrated dichotomy

Implies a seamless combination of opposing elements.

paradoxical synergy

Highlights the combined effect of seemingly paradoxical elements.

mutually exclusive cooperation

Contrasts the apparent exclusivity with a collaborative element.

united division

Emphasizes the state of being unified despite differences.

synthesis of opposites

Focuses on a new unified entity that incorporates opposing elements.

concurrent divergence

Highlights the simultaneous existence of both convergence and divergence.

FAQs

What does "complementary opposition" mean?

The term "complementary opposition" describes a situation where two seemingly opposite forces or ideas actually work together in a way that benefits the overall system or concept. It suggests a relationship where both elements are necessary and enhance each other.

How can I use "complementary opposition" in a sentence?

You might use "complementary opposition" to describe how two different departments in a company, with seemingly different goals, actually contribute to the company's overall success or how two opposing political ideologies can lead to more balanced policies.

What are some alternatives to "complementary opposition"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "harmonious contradiction", "balanced antagonism", or "cooperative conflict".

Is "complementary opposition" an oxymoron?

Yes, "complementary opposition" is an oxymoron because it combines two contradictory terms. However, it's used to describe situations where the contradiction is more apparent than real, and the two elements actually work together.