in opposite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in opposite" is an acceptable part of written English.
Generally, it is used to introduce an idea that is the reverse or opposite of something previously mentioned. For example, "He thought the glass was full, but upon further inspection he realized it was actually empty - or, in opposite, empty instead of full."

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"They're two strong, dark women, pulling Zaza in opposite directions".

The New York Times

Bashar pulls U-ey, speeds in opposite direction.

The New Yorker

That is because two forces are pulling in opposite directions.

The Guardian - Business

"At the very least we were pushing in opposite directions".

Huffington Post

Going in opposite directions.

The New York Times - Books

They walked in opposite directions.

The New York Times - Sports

(Yields and prices move in opposite directions).

The New York Times

The transformation can play in opposite directions.

Independent

They go about it in opposite manners.

The New York Times

Once home, they head in opposite directions.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, the rulings point in opposite directions.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in opposite", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being opposed. For clarity, consider rephrasing with more explicit language like "in the opposite direction" or "conversely".

Common error

Avoid assuming "in opposite" inherently implies a complete reversal. Clarify the degree of opposition with modifiers like "partially in opposite" or "entirely in opposite" if necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in opposite" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying verbs or nouns to indicate a contrary or reverse direction, action, or state. Ludwig AI confirms its usage through numerous examples in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in opposite" functions as a prepositional phrase to indicate contrast, opposition, or reversal, as validated by Ludwig AI. While generally acceptable and very common, it's important to ensure contextual clarity to prevent ambiguity. Consider using more explicit alternatives like "in the opposite direction" or "conversely" for enhanced precision. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media sources. While its use is widespread, being mindful of potential misunderstandings will improve writing quality and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the opposite direction

Specifies the reverse heading or course.

in reverse

Focuses on the act of reversing a direction or process.

in contrast

Highlights the difference or dissimilarity between two things.

in opposition

Emphasizes a state of being against or resisting something.

the other way around

Indicates a reversal of the order or arrangement of something.

conversely

Introduces a statement that reverses or contradicts a previous one.

on the contrary

Used to strongly deny or contradict a previous statement.

to the contrary

Indicates that the opposite of what has been stated is true.

in antithesis

Highlights a direct contrast or opposition.

in contradiction

Emphasizes the inconsistency or logical conflict between two things.

FAQs

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

You can use "in opposite" to indicate a contrary direction, idea, or movement. For example, "They walked "in opposite directions"".

What's a more formal alternative to "in opposite"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "conversely", "on the contrary", or "in contrast".

Is it always clear what "in opposite" refers to?

Not always. Ensure the context makes clear what is being contrasted or opposed. Using more explicit wording can prevent ambiguity. For example, use "in the opposite direction" rather than just "in opposite".

Which is more precise, "in opposite" or "in the opposite direction"?

"In the opposite direction" is generally more precise. While "in opposite" is acceptable, the longer phrase leaves less room for misinterpretation.