if the opposite is true

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if the opposite is true" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a condition or situation that may be contrary to what has been previously stated or assumed. Example: "We should consider the implications of our decision, especially if the opposite is true regarding the market trends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

But I wonder if the opposite is true.

The New York Times

Today it often seems as if the opposite is true.

The New York Times - Arts

If the opposite is true and we're rare, we matter.

The Guardian

In my life as a loan broker, however, it often seems as if the opposite is true.

The New York Times

Should it persuade diners that it doesn't harbor big ambitions or demand close attention, even if the opposite is true?

The New York Times - Food

But I wonder if the opposite is true – if instead of averting a lurch to the right, it in fact takes us one step closer.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

If anything, the opposite is true.

The Economist

Not that the Brooklyn exhibition has blockbuster potential; if anything, the opposite is true.

The New York Times - Arts

"If anything the opposite is true – while helping only a lucky few, by raising house price expectations the scheme has pushed prices even further out of reach for the majority.

The Guardian - Money

No longer is it necessary to buy a thousand-dollar changing table in order to prove your parental savvy and breadth of love; if anything, the opposite is true.

The New York Times

However if we examine the graphic the opposite is true.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if the opposite is true" to introduce a contrasting scenario or condition that challenges the initial statement. This can add depth and balance to your argument.

Common error

Ensure the 'opposite' being referred to is explicitly stated or easily understood from the context. Avoid using the phrase when the contrasting situation is ambiguous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if the opposite is true" functions as a conditional clause or a transitional phrase, introducing a scenario that contradicts a previous statement or assumption. It sets up an alternative condition for consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if the opposite is true" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for introducing contrasting scenarios. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this conditional phrase helps writers add depth to arguments by considering alternative outcomes. It appears most frequently in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. To enhance clarity, ensure the 'opposite' being referenced is clear and explicit. Consider related phrases such as "if the reverse holds" or "assuming the contrary" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if the reverse holds

Emphasizes the reversal of a condition or statement.

if the contrary is the case

Highlights the contrasting situation or condition.

should the inverse be true

Suggests a condition where the opposite outcome occurs.

assuming the contrary

Implies a supposition based on the opposite condition.

conversely, if that's not the case

Introduces an alternative where the initial condition does not apply.

if things are otherwise

Points to a different state or condition than the one previously mentioned.

in the event of the opposite

Highlights a contingency where the reverse situation occurs.

on the flip side

Informally introduces the opposite perspective or situation.

alternatively, if it's not so

Presents an alternate scenario if the initial condition isn't met.

what if the premise is false

Questions the initial assumption by suggesting its falsity.

FAQs

How do I use "if the opposite is true" in a sentence?

Use "if the opposite is true" to introduce a contrasting scenario or condition, suggesting an alternative outcome based on a reversed assumption. For example, "We assume this strategy will work, but if the opposite is true, we need a backup plan."

What are some alternatives to "if the opposite is true"?

You can use alternatives such as "if the reverse holds", "conversely, if that's not the case", or "assuming the contrary" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say, "if the opposite were true"?

Yes, "if the opposite were true" is also grammatically correct and can be used to express a hypothetical situation. The choice between "is" and "were" depends on the level of hypotheticality you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "if the opposite is true" and "if the reverse is true"?

While both phrases are similar, "if the opposite is true" generally refers to a direct contradiction of a statement, whereas "if the reverse is true" implies a change in order or direction. However, in many contexts, they are interchangeable.