diametrically opposite

USAGE SUMMARY

"diametrically opposite" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe two things that are completely different or incompatible with each other. For example: "My opinion on this matter is diametrically opposite to yours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They are really diametrically opposite".

The New York Times

about Manhattan's antipodes, or diametrically opposite pt. on the globe.

The New Yorker

Many spoke from personal experience of loved ones dying – to support  diametrically opposite positions.

Independent

When his aides fought over diametrically opposite policies, he persisted in seeking consensus.

The New York Times - Books

The managers of Arsenal and Newcastle took diametrically opposite views on everything.

The New York Times - Sports

As is the way with philosophers, many have often come to diametrically opposite conclusions.

The Economist

The problems for another coach, the Dutchman Bert van Marwijk, are diametrically opposite.

The New York Times - Sports

To describe those diametrically opposite regions, you need an adjective: polar.

The New York Times - Magazine

Poles are relevant here, because the Nyes and the McKennas could not be more diametrically opposite.

The New York Times - Books

Both these books deal with gay life, but from diametrically opposite points of view.

The Guardian - Books

Independent Internet companies and automakers are approaching this task with diametrically opposite strategies.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "diametrically opposite" to emphasize a stark contrast, especially when describing viewpoints, strategies, or outcomes. This phrase is most effective when highlighting two positions that are completely irreconcilable.

Common error

Avoid using "diametrically opposite" for minor differences. Reserve this phrase for situations where the contrast is extreme and fundamental, not for slight variations or preferences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "diametrically opposite" functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying nouns to indicate that two entities are completely opposed. As Ludwig shows, it is often used to describe viewpoints, positions, or outcomes that are in stark contrast.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "diametrically opposite" is a versatile adjective phrase used to emphasize a complete and irreconcilable opposition between two entities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various authoritative sources, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts. While effective for highlighting strong contrasts, it's important to reserve its use for situations where the opposition is truly fundamental, avoiding overuse in describing minor differences. By understanding its function and communicative purpose, writers can effectively employ "diametrically opposite" to add emphasis and clarity to their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely opposed

Emphasizes a total lack of agreement or alignment.

directly contrasting

Highlights a straightforward and clear difference.

utterly contrary

Stresses a strong sense of opposition and contradiction.

poles apart

Uses a spatial metaphor to describe extreme divergence.

at opposite extremes

Indicates positions at the furthest ends of a spectrum.

in total opposition

Highlights the state of being completely against something.

fundamentally different

Underlines a deep and basic dissimilarity.

irreconcilably different

Emphasizes the impossibility of reconciling the differences.

antithetical

A more formal term suggesting direct opposition in principle or idea.

mutually exclusive

Indicates that the two things cannot coexist or be true simultaneously.

FAQs

How to use "diametrically opposite" in a sentence?

Use "diametrically opposite" to describe two things that are completely opposed or contrary to each other. For example, "Their political views are diametrically opposite."

What can I say instead of "diametrically opposite"?

You can use alternatives like "completely opposed", "directly contrasting", or "poles apart" depending on the context.

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

Both "diametrically opposite" and "diametrically opposed" are correct and can be used interchangeably to describe things that are completely contrary to each other. The choice often depends on stylistic preference.

What's the difference between "diametrically opposite" and "very different"?

"Very different" indicates a significant difference, while "diametrically opposite" implies a complete and irreconcilable opposition. "Diametrically opposite" is a stronger, more emphatic way to express contrast.