Meaning & use
diametrically opposed
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Meaning
phraseafter a verb
As different or opposite as possible, with nothing shared between two views, goals, or positions.
Grammar: Usually follows be, and is often followed by to or on: diametrically opposed to our view.
Patterns
- be diametrically opposed to something
- be diametrically opposed on something
The two candidates are diametrically opposed on taxes.
Her goals were diametrically opposed to her partner's.
The siblings hold diametrically opposed views on money.
Common combinations
- diametrically opposed views
- The two leaders have diametrically opposed views.
- diametrically opposed to
- His plan is diametrically opposed to ours.
- diametrically opposed positions
- The parties took diametrically opposed positions.
- diametrically opposed on
- They are diametrically opposed on climate policy.
Synonyms and how they differ
- polar opposites
- Polar opposites is a warmer, more common expression with the same extreme sense.
- completely opposed
- Completely opposed is plainer and has no image of a circle.
- contradictory
- Contradictory means that two statements cannot both be true, which is narrower than diametrically opposed.
- at odds
- At odds suggests conflict, but not necessarily total opposition.
Opposites
Word family
- diameter noun
- a straight line through the center of a circle
- diametric adjective
- relating to a diameter or direct opposition
- oppose verb
- to be against
- opposition noun
- the act of being against
Commonly confused: diametrically opposed or diametrically opposite?
diametrically opposed vs diametrically opposite
Diametrically opposite is used for physical positions, while diametrically opposed is for views and goals.
Practice
The two negotiators were ____ on how to share the profits, so no deal was possible.
Choose one answer.
Diametrically opposed means totally opposite, which explains the failure. The other options suggest agreement or small differences.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “diametrically opposed”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.