opposite extreme

USAGE SUMMARY

'opposite extreme' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that is very far away from the other end of the spectrum, or in other words, the exact opposite of something. For example: "The new policy is an opposite extreme from the old one, and it has been met with mixed reactions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

So he went to the opposite extreme.

The New Yorker

Stairs was at the opposite extreme.

The New York Times - Sports

But we have since moved to the opposite extreme.

The New York Times

It's at the opposite extreme, cool and enticing.

The New York Times - Arts

"And to weather it requires almost the opposite extreme".

The New York Times

At the opposite extreme are Sport Plus settings.

Independent

But Mr Obama has veered to the opposite extreme.

The Economist

Croton-on-Hudson is at the opposite extreme from regulated places like Yonkers.

The New York Times

In Washington, senior Bush administration officials have taken a position at the opposite extreme.

The New York Times

(The Economist represents the opposite extreme; its writers' names do not appear with their articles).

The New York Times

All the fakery has sent some homeowners to the opposite extreme.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "opposite extreme" to clearly highlight a stark contrast or a complete reversal of a situation or opinion. It's effective in illustrating significant shifts in perspective or action.

Common error

Avoid using "opposite extreme" when referring to minor differences. This phrase is best suited for situations where the contrast is truly significant and represents a complete shift in position or character.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "opposite extreme" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It denotes a position, condition, or characteristic that is as different as possible from something else, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

26%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "opposite extreme" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that effectively highlights stark contrasts. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's employed across diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific literature. While alternative phrases like "polar opposite" or "complete antithesis" exist, "opposite extreme" remains a clear and versatile choice for emphasizing significant divergence. Remember to reserve this phrase for situations involving truly pronounced contrasts, avoiding its overuse in minor differences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extreme opposite

Simple switch of the two words, with no differences.

the other extreme

Indicates a shift to the contrasting and opposing end of a spectrum.

contrary extreme

Focuses on the contradictory nature rather than just the opposing position.

reverse extreme

Emphasizes the act of reversing or inverting a condition or situation.

conflicting extreme

Highlights the incompatibility or clash between two extremes.

polar opposite

Implies a complete and distinct opposition between two concepts or things.

utter contrast

Stresses the dramatic dissimilarity and divergence.

complete antithesis

Highlights the irreconcilable opposition between two ideas or things.

diametrically opposed

Implies a direct and complete opposition, often in terms of direction or belief.

antithetical position

Stresses the opposing nature of a viewpoint or stance.

FAQs

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

Use "opposite extreme" to describe something that is as different as possible from something else. For example, "While some advocate for strict regulations, others argue for the "laissez faire" approach, representing the opposite extreme."

What's a good way to rephrase "opposite extreme"?

You can use phrases like "polar opposite", "complete antithesis", or "utter contrast" to convey a similar meaning, emphasizing a strong difference.

Is it correct to say "extreme opposite" instead of "opposite extreme"?

While "extreme opposite" might be understood, "opposite extreme" is the more standard and widely accepted phrasing. It clearly emphasizes the concept of something being at the furthest end of a spectrum.

In what context is it most appropriate to use "opposite extreme"?

It is most appropriate to use "opposite extreme" in contexts where you want to highlight a stark and significant contrast, such as comparing two completely different viewpoints, behaviors, or outcomes.