different ends of the spectrum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'different ends of the spectrum' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the extremes of a range of variables, such as opinions or possibilities. For example, "When it comes to political beliefs, people seem to be situated at different ends of the spectrum these days."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

O'Kelley and Murphy were at different ends of the spectrum during the season.

The New York Times - Sports

Both are miscarriages of justice, albeit at different ends of the spectrum.

The New York Times

I did things to extremes, at different ends of the spectrum.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In Jazz at Lincoln Center's continuing series of commissioned works, the two latest are from artists who are superficially on different ends of the spectrum.

The New York Times

Though coming from different ends of the spectrum, Paterson and Pryde were in complete agreement about the nature of the Shackleton whisky.

The New York Times - Magazine

The parties, though from different ends of the spectrum, were so committed that in January Gov. Mitt Romney personally delivered letters to the homes of legislative leaders urging them to break a logjam.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Frederick Clegg represents a terrifying, different end of the spectrum.

The Guardian - Books

So they're finding clever ways to try for a different end of the spectrum.

The New York Times

Zipwhip is approaching the idea of using messaging as a B2C communications tool from a different end of the spectrum.

TechCrunch

Charlton manager Chris Powell: "We're at the different end of the spectrum to Burnley at the minute.

BBC

His mother and I were stereotypical parents from the different end of the spectrum," Gov. Beebe said.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "different ends of the spectrum", ensure that the context clearly establishes the spectrum or range being discussed to avoid ambiguity. For example, "On the spectrum of introversion and extroversion, these two individuals lie at different ends."

Common error

A common mistake is to use "different ends of the spectrum" without adequately defining the spectrum itself. This can lead to confusion. Always clarify the range or scale you are referring to. For example, avoid saying "They are at different ends of the spectrum" and instead specify "They are at different ends of the political spectrum."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "different ends of the spectrum" functions as a prepositional phrase and is often used as an adverbial modifier. It modifies a verb or clause, indicating the extent or degree of difference between two entities. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across a variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "different ends of the spectrum" is a versatile expression used to highlight significant contrast between two entities within a defined range. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically sound and widely applicable. It functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying verbs to emphasize the extent of difference. While suitable for various registers, it's essential to clearly define the spectrum to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "opposite extremes" and "polar opposites" offer similar emphasis. Its frequency in news and media underscores its relevance in conveying diverse viewpoints and positions. By understanding its proper usage and potential pitfalls, writers can effectively use "different ends of the spectrum" to add depth and clarity to their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

opposite extremes

Replaces "ends" with "extremes" and "different" with "opposite", emphasizing the polarity.

poles apart

A more informal and vivid way to indicate maximal difference.

polar opposites

A more concise and emphatic way to denote the greatest possible contrast.

diametrically opposed

Highlights that the items are in direct opposition to one another.

extreme contrasts

Highlights the sharp distinctions between two things, focusing on the idea of contrast.

completely contrary

Highlights the contradictory nature of the items, while being a more common synonym.

vastly dissimilar

Emphasizes the great degree of difference between two things.

distinctly contrasting

This emphasizes the clear and noticeable differences between two or more things.

widely divergent

Indicates a significant deviation or difference.

utterly different

Focuses on the complete dissimilarity between the entities being compared, omitting the spectrum metaphor.

FAQs

How can I use "different ends of the spectrum" in a sentence?

You can use "different ends of the spectrum" to describe items, ideas or opinions that are as opposed to each other as possible, or to emphasize that they are extreme opposites. For example: "The two candidates represent "different ends of the political spectrum"".

What does "different ends of the spectrum" mean?

The phrase "different ends of the spectrum" refers to positions, opinions, or characteristics that are as far apart from each other as possible within a particular range or scale. It suggests a wide divergence or contrast between two things.

What's a good alternative to "different ends of the spectrum"?

Alternatives to "different ends of the spectrum" include phrases like "opposite extremes", "polar opposites", or "diametrically opposed", all of which convey a similar meaning of strong contrast.

Is it correct to say "different sides of the spectrum" instead of "different ends of the spectrum"?

While "different sides of the spectrum" is sometimes used, "different ends of the spectrum" is more common and generally preferred. "Sides" can imply a binary division, while "ends" emphasizes the full range of possibilities within the spectrum.