the opposite from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the opposite from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that something is completely different or contrary to something else. Example: "His opinion is the opposite from mine on this matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

"I personally witnessed and experienced the opposite from him.

The Guardian

I suspect my approval may mean he gets the opposite from the kids.

The Guardian

It's uncommon, probably less than 3percentt for either of those, quite the opposite from hepatitis B".

The New York Times - Health

In one sense, my objective is just the opposite from that of John Keegan in A History of Warfare (1993).

The New York Times - Books

Here, then, is the opposite, from the staff writers of The New York Times: a list of things they should not do.

The New York Times

So quite the opposite from feeling flush, do we house-buying obsessed Brits feel we're getting more bricks and windows for our money elsewhere?

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

The wrong end of the bow is the portion of the bow opposite from the frog.

WikiHow

It's a good idea to put the center of the waistband opposite from the center of the strap overlap.

WikiHow

Otherwise we placed the mutation outside the interval in the direction opposite from the second marker.

BMC Genomics

Wearing heavy leather gloves and handling the end of the trap opposite from the rodents head is the safest method.

WikiHow

Parietal peritoneal biopsies were collected from the opposite side from the catheter installation.

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the opposite from", ensure that the context clearly establishes what is being contrasted. Use it to highlight a distinct difference or reversal to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "the opposite from" when the point of comparison is ambiguous or unstated. Ensure the reader knows exactly what you are contrasting to prevent confusion. Example: Instead of saying 'His behavior was the opposite from,' specify 'His behavior was the opposite from what we expected'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the opposite from" functions as a prepositional phrase, primarily used to indicate a stark contrast or divergence between two entities, actions, or ideas. It serves to highlight that one thing is completely different or contrary to another. Ludwig indicates it's correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the opposite from" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to denote stark contrast. While not as frequent as alternatives like "the opposite of", it is prevalent across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and general writing. Ludwig confirms its correctness. When employing this phrase, clarity is paramount; ensure that the points of comparison are well-defined. While versatile, it is less common in highly formal or scientific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the reverse of

Indicates a direct reversal, emphasizing the change in direction or order.

the direct opposite of

Adds emphasis to the contrast, making it explicitly clear.

the antithesis of

Highlights a stark contrast, often used in more formal or literary contexts.

the contrary to

Suggests a conflicting or opposing viewpoint or action.

poles apart from

Indicates a wide divergence, suggesting a great distance between two things.

in opposition to

Emphasizes a position against something, highlighting disagreement or resistance.

completely different from

Highlights a total lack of resemblance or similarity.

the inverse of

Implies a mathematical or logical reversal, often used in technical contexts.

at odds with

Indicates a state of conflict or disagreement.

the negation of

Focuses on the denial or contradiction of something.

FAQs

How can I use "the opposite from" in a sentence?

Use "the opposite from" to indicate a stark contrast between two things. For example, "Her reaction was the opposite from what I anticipated."

What phrases are similar to "the opposite from"?

You can use phrases such as "the reverse of", "the contrary to", or "in opposition to" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "the opposite from"?

Yes, saying "the opposite from" is grammatically correct. While some may prefer "the opposite of", both are acceptable depending on the context.

What's the difference between "the opposite from" and "the opposite of"?

While both phrases express contrast, "the opposite from" often implies a comparison between actions or behaviors, whereas "the opposite of" can refer to objects or concepts. For example, "His actions were the opposite from what he promised" versus "The opposite of good is evil."