diametrically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "diametrically" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe two things that are completely opposite or in direct contrast to each other. Example: "Their opinions on the matter are diametrically opposed, making it difficult to reach a consensus."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We could probably expect a diametrically opposed reaction by the countries that participated in this," he said.

The Guardian

Which is fine, but the problem is that there's not anything especially revelatory here: the cast of characters – the gruff patriarch, the diametrically opposed brothers – all feel very tired, and its dialogue sags rather than snaps.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Clegg is synonymous with his party, as Sturgeon now is with hers, but with diametrically opposite consequences.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Lib Dems, who are now under intense pressure after agreeing in government that tuition fees should be allowed to rise, said the document was designed to work out how to reach agreement with the Tories and Labour, who were "diametrically" opposed to them.

The Guardian

I think it's fantastic to be reminded that in a liberal democracy, a foreign citizen who is the star captain of a team based in the national capital can openly express views diametrically opposed to government policy, and not be punished for it in any way.

The Economist

Conversely, a progressive consumption tax, which is designed to reduce the level of consumption inequality, will exacerbate wealth inequality.These policies will have very different, perhaps even diametrically opposite, effects on the two measures on inequality.

The Economist

Western countries have made cautiously encouraging noises, but say they are waiting to see what happens at a meeting between Mr Abbas, Mr Olmert and Condoleezza Rice, the American secretary of state, on February 19th.The ambiguity in the Mecca deal once again highlights diametrically opposed views of Hamas.

The Economist

FEW foundation myths are as diametrically opposed as those of Jews and Palestinians.

The Economist

On most European matters, German Christian Democrats and British Conservatives are diametrically opposed, yet they are in the same European People's Party.

The Economist

That explains why ecologists and economists have long held diametrically opposed views on development.

The Economist

Maurice Hayes, the only Northern Irish Catholic on the commission, wrote later that it heard diametrically opposed views of the RUC: "one lot wanted us to canonise them, the others to castrate them".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "diametrically", ensure that the opposing elements are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "diametrically" when the contrast is not absolute or fundamental; a less forceful term may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "diametrically" functions to modify verbs or adjectives, emphasizing the complete and absolute opposition between two or more elements. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where "diametrically" intensifies the sense of contrast.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "diametrically" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adverb that intensifies the sense of opposition between two entities. Ludwig AI showcases its consistent application across diverse domains, particularly in News & Media and Science. The phrase emphasizes complete and absolute contrast, making it suitable for contexts where differences are fundamental. While "diametrically opposed" is a common construction, it's essential to ensure the opposition is genuinely profound to avoid overstatement. For alternatives, consider phrases like "completely opposed" or "directly opposite" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely opposed

This alternative is more straightforward and less formal.

directly opposite

This alternative emphasizes the direct contrast between two things.

entirely contrary

This phrase highlights the conflicting nature of the ideas or things being compared.

at opposite extremes

This phrase emphasizes the position of two things at the farthest ends of a spectrum.

antithetical

A more formal term suggesting direct opposition or contrast.

in total opposition

Emphasizes the complete and absolute nature of the opposition.

poles apart

This is an idiomatic expression suggesting a great distance or difference.

irreconcilably different

This highlights that the differences are so profound that they cannot be resolved.

mutually exclusive

This term indicates that two things cannot coexist or be true at the same time.

fundamentally different

Indicates a deep and basic level of difference.

FAQs

How to use "diametrically" in a sentence?

"Diametrically" is used to indicate that two things are completely opposed or in direct contrast. For example, "Their views on the issue are "diametrically opposed", making a compromise difficult."

What can I say instead of "diametrically"?

You can use alternatives like "completely opposed", "directly opposite", or "entirely contrary" depending on the context.

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

Both ""diametrically opposed"" and "diametrically opposite" are acceptable, but "diametrically opposed" is more common.

What's the difference between "diametrically" and "oppositely"?

"Diametrically" implies a complete and fundamental opposition, while "oppositely" simply indicates that two things are facing or moving in different directions or are otherwise contrary, but not necessarily fundamentally conflicting.