directly opposite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "directly opposite" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe two entities that are placed in direct opposition to one another. For example, "The student was standing directly opposite the teacher."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was directly opposite chapter one.

The Guardian - Books

He is buried in Highgate Cemetery directly opposite Ralph Richardson.

The Guardian - Arts

His spot was on a corner directly opposite Carnegie Hall.

The New York Times

A Duane Reade store is directly opposite, on Broadway.

The New York Times

[Arabick.] The point under foot directly opposite to the zenith.

Yale University

You enter village directly opposite Dyke's End pub.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Suvai is directly opposite East Ham Tube station.

The Guardian - Travel

The college is located directly opposite Finchley Road underground station.

The Telegraph

Tom sat on the matching love seat directly opposite.

The New York Times

Directly opposite sits a new restaurant, Pho Saigon No. 1.

The New York Times

Directly opposite parliament, on the far side of Syntagma Square, is Ermou Street.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "directly opposite" in descriptions, ensure the objects or locations are genuinely facing each other without any significant offset. This enhances clarity and accuracy.

Common error

Avoid using "directly opposite" to describe abstract concepts unless there's a clear analogy to physical opposition. Overuse can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "directly opposite" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause to indicate spatial relationships. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is generally used to describe entities positioned in direct opposition to each other. Examples in Ludwig highlight its use in describing locations and seating arrangements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

9%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "directly opposite" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to clearly define spatial relationships, indicating that two entities are facing each other. Ludwig AI confirms this, and the examples illustrate its frequent use across various contexts, particularly in news, academic writing, and general descriptions. While versatile, its meaning is emphasized in that objects/locations must genuinely face each other without significant offset. Alternatives such as ""exactly facing"" and ""straight across from"" can be used for stylistic variation, but the key is to maintain clarity in describing the relative positions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exactly facing

Emphasizes the precise alignment and confrontation between two points.

in direct opposition

Highlights the confrontational or contrasting nature of the positions.

immediately across from

Focuses on the proximity and spatial relationship.

straight across from

Indicates a clear and unobstructed path between two locations.

vis-à-vis

A more formal term indicating a face-to-face or corresponding position.

facing squarely

Implies a deliberate and direct facing position.

diametrically opposed

Highlights the extreme contrast or opposition in position or views.

fronting directly

Emphasizes that something is facing the subject in question.

in a head-on position

Conveys a direct and often confrontational spatial relationship.

point-blank opposite

Illustrates how something is the polar opposite of the subject in question.

FAQs

How can I use "directly opposite" in a sentence?

Use "directly opposite" to indicate that something is located right across from something else. For example, "The bank is "directly opposite" the post office".

What are some alternatives to "directly opposite"?

Alternatives include "exactly facing", "immediately across from", or "straight across from", each varying slightly in emphasis.

Is it always necessary to use "directly" with "opposite"?

While "opposite" alone can suffice, "directly opposite" emphasizes the exact positioning. Using "directly" adds clarity and precision, especially when the opposition might not be immediately obvious.

What is the difference between "directly opposite" and "in front of"?

"Directly opposite" implies a face-to-face relationship, while "in front of" simply means something is ahead. The concepts aren't interchangeable; something can be in front of you without being "directly opposite".