opposite each other

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "opposite each other" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the positioning of two items. For example, "The two chairs were positioned opposite each other near the fireplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Because the pairs are parallel, two sides of equal length are opposite each other.

WikiHow

We used to have flats opposite each other in Nottingham.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

On the train we sat opposite each other.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They were cast opposite each other as boyfriend and girlfriend.

The New York Times

We were, after all, on opposite each other.

The New York Times

In the study, there is a large custom-made table with two typewriters opposite each other.

The New Yorker

Complementary colours are colours which lie opposite each other on the colour wheel.

The Guardian - Arts

Intriguing landscape documentary visiting places directly opposite each other on the globe.

The Guardian - Film

"We sat up opposite each other on the plane one night," Kerry told me.

The New Yorker

"The man and the woman sat opposite each other in the railway carriage".

The Guardian - Books

Ariel Booker, 24, and Perry Fielding, 29, sat opposite each other.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "opposite each other" to clearly indicate a spatial relationship where two entities face or are positioned directly across from one another.

Common error

Avoid using "opposite to each other", as the preposition "to" is redundant. "Opposite each other" is sufficient and more concise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "opposite each other" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate relative position or contrast. Ludwig examples show it describing physical locations, arrangements, or abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

22%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Science

12%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "opposite each other" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to describe spatial arrangements, contrasting ideas, or opposing characteristics. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, though primarily found in news, wiki entries, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, remember that "opposite each other" is more concise and preferable to "opposite to each other". Consider alternatives like "facing one another" or "across from each other" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

facing one another

Emphasizes the act of facing, directly looking at each other.

across from each other

Highlights the spatial relationship of being positioned on opposite sides.

in opposing positions

Focuses on the concept of being in contrary or conflicting stances.

at opposite ends

Stresses being located at the furthest extremes.

diametrically opposed

Indicates the highest degree of opposition, like points on a diameter.

reverse positions

Indicates an inverted or backward arrangement relative to each other.

in contrary directions

Emphasizes divergence in direction or opinion.

in antithesis

Presents the concept of direct contrast or opposition.

mutually exclusive

Highlights that the presence of one negates the possibility of the other.

vis-à-vis

A more formal term indicating face-to-face positioning or comparison.

FAQs

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

You can use "opposite each other" to describe spatial relationships, such as "The buildings stood "opposite each other" on the street" or conceptual contrasts, for example "The two arguments are "opposite each other"".

What does "opposite each other" mean?

"Opposite each other" indicates that two things are facing each other or are in directly contrasting positions or directions.

Are there synonyms for "opposite each other"?

Yes, phrases like "facing one another", "across from each other", or "in opposing positions" can be used depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "opposite to each other"?

While understandable, "opposite to each other" is less common and slightly redundant. The preferred and more concise form is simply ""opposite each other"".