opposite numbers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "opposite numbers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in mathematical contexts to refer to numbers that are equal in magnitude but opposite in sign. Example: "In mathematics, -5 and 5 are considered opposite numbers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Contrast their performances with those of their opposite numbers in broadcasting.

The Guardian

Liberal left politicians fall over one another in outbidding their opposite numbers on the right.

The Guardian - Opinion

What Mr. Norquist really looks forward to is embarrassing his opposite numbers.

The New York Times

What about these states' opposite numbers — those that are almost certain to go Republican?

The New York Times

They also have greater job security than their opposite numbers in the private sector.

The Economist

Opposition to the bill strengthened after the leak of two draft letters to Clarke's Conservative and Liberal Democrat opposite numbers.

The Guardian - Opinion

And in Petipa's original scenario, the second act's jaunty divertissements had opposite numbers in Clara's family party.

The Guardian - Music

So American negotiators must recognize that their Russian opposite numbers will, to some extent, represent Chinese interests.

The New York Times

"They're ranked as the best second row pairing in the world but I don't fear any of my opposite numbers.

The Guardian - Sport

Richard may well have scandalised some of his opposite numbers in the PLC world by his announcement.

The Guardian - Business

They lack the experience of their opposite numbers on Saturday, but they are equally as instrumental to their team.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "opposite numbers" when you want to emphasize a direct comparison between two roles, positions, or entities that exist in different organizations or groups. For example, contrasting the performance of CEOs in competing companies.

Common error

Avoid assuming "opposite numbers" are always equal in ability or influence. The phrase indicates a comparable role, not necessarily comparable performance or status. For example, do not assume that two country leaders, who are "opposite numbers", have the same power.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "opposite numbers" functions as a plural noun, referring to individuals or groups holding equivalent or corresponding positions in different organizations, teams, or sides. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sport

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "opposite numbers" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to individuals or groups holding equivalent positions in different entities, often implying a comparison or interaction between them. Ludwig AI validates that it's grammatically correct and widely applicable, predominantly in news and sports contexts. While neutral in tone, context determines whether it suggests competition or mere correspondence. When writing, clarity in the comparison and awareness of implied connotations is essential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

counterparts

Focuses on individuals or groups holding equivalent positions or roles.

opposite parties

Emphasizes opposing sides or groups, often in political or adversarial contexts.

corresponding members

Highlights individuals who are part of a similar group or organization, often geographically separated.

equivalent personnel

Refers to individuals with similar skills or responsibilities in different settings.

reciprocal agents

Suggests individuals who act as agents or representatives for each other, often in trade or diplomacy.

matching figures

Emphasizes the similarity or correspondence between numbers or statistics.

parallel entities

Refers to organizations or systems that operate in a similar manner.

mirrored positions

Highlights the reflective or symmetrical nature of roles or responsibilities.

relative equivalents

Indicates that individuals or things are comparable in terms of their value or function.

complementary pairs

Suggests two entities that combine to form a whole or complete a set.

FAQs

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

You can use "opposite numbers" to refer to people holding equivalent positions in different organizations or groups, as in "The negotiators met with their opposite numbers to discuss the treaty".

What does "opposite numbers" mean?

It refers to people who hold equivalent positions in different organizations or teams. For example, the head of marketing at one company and the head of marketing at a competing company are "opposite numbers".

Is it correct to use "opposite numbers" in a formal context?

Yes, "opposite numbers" is suitable for formal contexts, especially when discussing professional or official relationships. It's commonly used in news reports, business articles, and academic papers.

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

While "opposite numbers" is already quite neutral, you could use phrases like "counterparts" or "corresponding members" in particularly formal contexts.