oppose one another

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "oppose one another" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where two or more parties are in conflict or disagreement with each other. Example: "In the debate, the candidates will oppose one another on key issues affecting the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Unlike the two milRNA duplexes, reads within the loop region varied in both length and 5′ start site, and did not directly oppose one another on the precursor sequence.

BMC Genomics

That and some muddled boasts to co-workers about having links to both al-Qaida and to Hezbollah, groups that bitterly oppose one another from across the Sunni-Shia divide.

The Guardian - Opinion

Additionally it was observed that complimentary caloric effects are competing in nature and could act to oppose one another.

Acta Materialia

To optimise the handling of a vehicle in conjunction with ride comfort is a challenge due to the fact that the suspension features determining these functions tend to oppose one another.

Mathematical and Computer Modelling

The version of structured analysis presented is called as "postmodern" because it combines design approaches from several schools, some of which oppose one another, namely Yourdon-style structured analysis, Jackson System Development, and object-oriented analysis.

Design Methods for Reactive Systems Yourdon, Statemate, and the UML

As we shall see, it is a controversy of religion vs. religion; in particular, the creationism controversy is based in fringe sectarian views that oppose one another as well as mainstream theology.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

And why are Democrats opposing one another on what's important?

Huffington Post

Why, those two just can't stop attending each others' weddings and hosting book-signing parties for one another - which is exactly what you'd expect of the two people who opposed one another in court on the case that rent the body politic in twain!

Huffington Post

Also 2 sessions involving the Marriage Equality Act, as well as Citizens United were presented by two of the United States most famous lawyers who opposed one another in the Citizen's case and joined forces on the Marriage Equality Case.

Huffington Post

Two teams with offenses that often flow in hot, fast and frenetic ways opposed one another at Yankee Stadium last night.

The New York Times - Sports

The state's chief judge has ordered lawyers who are opposing one another in court to provide copies of documents if their adversaries have been affected.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "oppose one another", ensure that the subjects involved are clearly defined and that the context demonstrates a clear conflict or contrast between them. For example, "The two political parties oppose one another on nearly every major policy issue."

Common error

Avoid using "oppose one another" when the action is not truly reciprocal. This phrase implies a mutual action; if only one party is opposing, a different verb should be used, such as "oppose".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "oppose one another" functions as a reciprocal verb phrase, indicating a mutual action or relationship of antagonism between two or more subjects. Ludwig examples show it describing conflicting ideas, political stances, or forces.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "oppose one another" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to denote conflict or disagreement between two or more entities. Ludwig's analysis shows that it frequently appears in scientific and news contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct for use in written English. While its usage is generally neutral, writers should be mindful of the reciprocal nature of the phrase. Alternatives such as "counter one another" or "clash with each other" may provide a more precise nuance depending on the specific context. By understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and common usage patterns, writers can effectively incorporate "oppose one another" into their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

counter one another

Emphasizes the act of negating or invalidating each other's effects or actions, focusing on direct opposition.

clash with each other

Highlights a more forceful and confrontational disagreement or conflict.

conflict with each other

Suggests a deeper, more inherent incompatibility or disagreement.

stand in opposition

Implies a firm and principled resistance or disagreement.

be at odds

Indicates a state of disagreement or conflict, often ongoing or unresolved.

resist each other

Focuses on the act of actively preventing or hindering each other's progress or actions.

contradict each other

Emphasizes a logical inconsistency or direct disagreement in statements or ideas.

dissent from each other

Highlights a difference in opinion or belief, often within a group or organization.

be antagonistic toward one another

Indicates mutual hostility or active opposition.

be in disagreement

Indicates a state of not sharing the same opinion or view.

FAQs

How can I use "oppose one another" in a sentence?

Use "oppose one another" to indicate that two or more entities are in conflict or disagreement. For example, "The two candidates "oppose one another" on key policy issues."

What's a more formal way to say "oppose one another"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "counter one another" or "stand in opposition", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "opposing one another"?

Yes, "opposing one another" is grammatically correct and functions as a participial phrase. It's similar to saying that entities are in the process of opposing each other.

What's the difference between ""oppose one another"" and "compete with each other"?

"Oppose one another" suggests a direct conflict or disagreement, while "compete with each other" implies a rivalry or striving for the same goal, not necessarily involving direct antagonism.