in direct opposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in direct opposition" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to two distinct entities that are opposing each other in a single, direct way. For example, "The local government's decision to allow construction in the city center was met with protest from environmental groups, in direct opposition to the plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A philosophy in direct opposition to institutionalism.

The Guardian - Music

Trump stands in direct opposition to those goals.

The Guardian

This breakdown maintenance mentality stands in direct opposition to the target of high productivity.

An Introduction to Predictive Maintenance

These instructions, however, were often in direct opposition to certain aims of British policy.

Yale University

Me: By definition, that puts you in direct opposition with the Tory front bench.

The Guardian

Last week, the group staked out a position in direct opposition to King Abdullah II.

The New York Times

Technological, indeed all progress, in this frame, is placed in direct opposition to community.

The Guardian - Opinion

In direct opposition to the great Richie McCaw, he suffered not at all from the comparison.

The Guardian - Sport

This is wrong, and in direct opposition to what we believe God says in Scripture.

The New Yorker

There are three Agnes Martin drawings positioned in direct opposition to Feretory.

The Guardian - Books

The dispute is a rare instance where environmental cleanup and human health are in direct opposition.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in direct opposition", ensure that the context clearly defines what is being opposed. This enhances clarity and prevents misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "in direct opposition" when the contrast is not explicitly defined. Ensure that the entities or ideas being opposed are clearly stated to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in direct opposition" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb, indicating a state of clear and unambiguous contrast or disagreement. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is grammatically correct. The examples show its role in highlighting opposing viewpoints or actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

15%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in direct opposition" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase that clearly indicates a strong contrast or disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. Predominantly found in news and media, it effectively highlights conflicting viewpoints or actions. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what is being opposed to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "in stark contrast" or "in complete contradiction" may be considered depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in complete contradiction

Highlights a logical inconsistency or incompatibility.

in total conflict

Focuses on the clashing nature of the opposing forces.

in stark contrast

Emphasizes a sharp and clear difference.

irreconcilable with

Suggests that two things cannot be made compatible.

diametrically opposed

Indicates opposition from opposite extremes.

contrary to

Indicates disagreement with a statement or belief.

at loggerheads with

Describes a state of intense disagreement or dispute.

at odds with

Suggests disagreement or friction.

antagonistic to

Highlights an active hostility or opposition.

counter to

Implies a movement or direction against something.

FAQs

How can I use "in direct opposition" in a sentence?

You can use "in direct opposition" to show a clear contrast between two things. For example, "His views are "in direct opposition" to the company's policies".

What are some alternatives to "in direct opposition"?

Some alternatives include "in stark contrast", "in complete contradiction", or "diametrically opposed".

Is it better to say "in direct opposition to" or "in direct opposition with"?

"In direct opposition to" is the more common and grammatically preferred construction. While "in direct opposition with" might be understood, "in direct opposition to" is generally more accepted.

What's the difference between "in direct opposition" and "in conflict with"?

"In direct opposition" suggests a more defined and ideological disagreement, whereas "in conflict with" implies a broader range of clashes, not necessarily ideological. They can be interchangeable based on context.