opposite

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'opposite' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to two things or ideas that are completely different from each other. For example, "The two teams had opposite strategies regarding the match."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The opposite is the case.

The Guardian

In fact, the opposite is true.

The New York Times

If anything, the opposite is true.

The Economist

Quite the opposite occurred.

The New York Times

"They did the opposite".

The New York Times

Rather, the opposite.

The New York Times - Sports

The opposite has happened.

The New York Times

"I have also heard that others are expecting the exact opposite and are hoping that I will deliver the clear and simple message here in London that the rest of Europe is not prepared to pay almost any price to keep Britain in the EU.

The Guardian

Just the opposite, in fact.

The Guardian - Sport

Her government's tacit support for Saddam Hussein's war against Iran led to successive Gulf wars and John Major's studied neutrality in Bosnia – which later pushed Tony Blair in the opposite direction, towards costly interventionism that overstretched MoD resources.

The Guardian - Opinion

The People's Palace is directly opposite, providing a splendid finish to Glasgow's East End, which is (like the rest of Glasgow) both magically historic and buzzing with up-and-coming culture.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To emphasize a strong contrast, consider using phrases like "polar opposite" or "diametrically opposed" to highlight the significant difference.

Common error

Avoid using "opposite" when a less extreme term like "different" or "distinct" would be more accurate. "Opposite" implies a complete reversal or contrast, which may not always be the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "opposite" is to describe something that is completely different or contrary to something else. It can function as an adjective, adverb, noun, or preposition, as evidenced by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

17%

Opinion

6%

Travel

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "opposite" is a versatile term used to denote contrast, contradiction, or spatial opposition. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct, and its usage is very common across various contexts like news, media, and formal business communications. When using "opposite", it's important to ensure the context is clear. For spatial relations, always specify the reference point. To enhance emphasis, consider using stronger synonyms like "polar opposite" or "diametrically opposed". Avoid misusing "opposite" when a milder term like "different" suffices. This guide provides a comprehensive understanding of "opposite" and its appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contrary to

Emphasizes direct contradiction or contrast, often used to introduce an opposing viewpoint.

inverse of

Implies a reversal or mirror image, particularly in mathematical or logical contexts.

reverse of

Indicates a change to the back or the other side; a contrary state.

contrasting with

Highlights the differences between two things being compared.

facing

Specifically refers to spatial positioning directly across from something.

diametrically opposed

Stresses a complete and irreconcilable difference.

antithetical to

Highlights a fundamental opposition or incompatibility.

at variance with

Suggests a disagreement or inconsistency.

on the other side of

Refers to a location directly across from a specific point or boundary.

the antithesis of

Indicates the direct and complete opposite.

FAQs

How is "opposite" used in a sentence to show contrast?

You can use "opposite" to highlight differences, such as in the sentence, "His political views are the "opposite" of mine."

What's the difference between "opposite" and "different"?

"Opposite" implies a complete contrast, while "different" simply means not the same. The effects of hot and cold weather are "opposite", while preferring tea to coffee is just a "different" choice.

Can "opposite" be used for abstract concepts, or is it only for physical locations?

"Opposite" is valid for abstract concepts such as "The "opposite" of love is hate" and also for physical locations, such as "The shop is "opposite" the library".

What phrases can I use as alternatives to "opposite"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "contrary to", "inverse of", or "reverse of" as alternatives to "opposite".