Opposite and contrary are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. In this article, we will explore the differences between opposite and contrary, and provide examples of how to use each word correctly.
Let’s define the two words. Opposite refers to something that is completely different from another thing, and is located on the other side. For example, the opposite of hot is cold, and the opposite of up is down. Contrary, on the other hand, refers to something that is in opposition to another thing, but not necessarily completely different or located on the other side. For example, if someone says “I like dogs,” and another person says “I hate dogs,” those opinions are contrary to each other, but not necessarily opposite.
It’s important to use the correct word when describing two things that are in opposition to each other. Using opposite when you actually mean contrary can lead to confusion and make your writing less clear. In the following sections, we will explore some examples of how to use opposite and contrary in different contexts.
Define Opposite
Opposite refers to something that is completely different or contrary in nature, character, or direction to something else. It is a term used to describe two things that are as far apart from each other as possible. For example, hot and cold are opposite concepts, as are light and dark, good and evil, and up and down. Opposite is a term that is often used in mathematics, where it refers to numbers that have the same absolute value but different signs.
Define Contrary
Contrary, on the other hand, refers to something that is in opposition to or against something else. It is a term used to describe things that are different, but not necessarily completely opposite. For example, if someone says something that is contrary to popular belief, they are expressing a different opinion or perspective, but not necessarily the opposite. Contrary can also be used to describe behavior that is different from what is expected or desired.
Here is a table summarizing the differences between opposite and contrary:
| Opposite | Contrary |
|---|---|
| Completely different | Different, but not necessarily completely opposite |
| Used in mathematics | Not used in mathematics |
| Refers to things that are as far apart from each other as possible | Refers to things that are in opposition to or against each other |
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Using the right words in a sentence is crucial to conveying the intended meaning. Opposite and contrary are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings that should be understood to use them properly.
How To Use Opposite In A Sentence
Opposite refers to something that is completely different or contrary to something else. It is often used to describe a relationship between two things that are directly across from each other, such as opposite sides of a street or opposite ends of a spectrum. When using opposite in a sentence, it is important to ensure that the context is clear and that the word is being used correctly.
Examples:
- The restaurant is opposite the movie theater.
- The two candidates have opposite views on healthcare.
- The colors red and green are opposite on the color wheel.
How To Use Contrary In A Sentence
Contrary refers to something that is opposite or opposed to something else. It is often used to describe a conflicting or contradictory relationship between two things. When using contrary in a sentence, it is important to ensure that the context is clear and that the word is being used correctly.
Examples:
- Contrary to popular belief, not all sharks are dangerous to humans.
- Her actions were contrary to her words.
- The results of the study were contrary to what was expected.
More Examples Of Opposite & Contrary Used In Sentences
In this section, we will explore more examples of how the words “opposite” and “contrary” are used in sentences. By understanding their usage, you can improve your vocabulary and communication skills.
Examples Of Using “Opposite” In A Sentence
- The weather today is the opposite of what was forecasted.
- She always does the opposite of what I suggest.
- Black is the opposite of white.
- The opposite of love is hate.
- He is the complete opposite of his brother.
- She took the opposite direction from the rest of the group.
- His opinion is the opposite of mine.
- Their goals are opposite to each other.
- He is the opposite of a team player.
- The opposite of success is failure.
As you can see, “opposite” is used to describe something that is completely different or contrary in nature to something else. It is often used to express contrast or opposition.
Examples Of Using “Contrary” In A Sentence
- Contrary to popular belief, dogs are not colorblind.
- His actions were contrary to his words.
- Contrary to what you may think, I am not a morning person.
- Her opinion is contrary to the majority.
- Contrary to expectations, the project was completed ahead of schedule.
- He always takes a contrary position in arguments.
- Contrary to his promises, he did not show up on time.
- Her behavior was contrary to the rules of the organization.
- Contrary to what he said, he did not have the necessary qualifications.
- His beliefs are contrary to the teachings of the church.
“Contrary” is used to describe something that goes against expectations or is in opposition to something else. It is often used to express disagreement or contradiction.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using the words opposite and contrary, people often make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, these two words have different meanings and cannot always be used in the same context.
Common Mistakes:
- Using opposite when referring to ideas or opinions
- Using contrary when referring to physical objects or directions
- Using opposite to mean completely different, when it actually means directly across from
- Using contrary to mean the opposite, when it actually means in conflict with
For example, saying “I have an opposite opinion” is incorrect. The correct phrase would be “I have a contrary opinion.” Similarly, saying “The store is opposite the bank” is correct, but saying “The store is opposite to the bank” is incorrect.
Tips To Avoid These Mistakes:
- Understand the difference in meaning between opposite and contrary
- Use opposite when referring to physical objects or directions
- Use contrary when referring to ideas or opinions
- Be mindful of the context in which you are using these words
By following these tips, you can avoid making common mistakes when using opposite and contrary in your writing and speaking.
Context Matters
Choosing between opposite and contrary can depend on the context in which they are used. Both words are commonly used to describe things that are different or in opposition to each other, but they can have different connotations depending on the situation.
Examples Of Different Contexts
In some contexts, opposite might be the more appropriate choice. For example:
- Mathematics: In mathematics, opposite is used to describe numbers that are the same distance from zero but on opposite sides of the number line. For example, -3 and 3 are opposite numbers.
- Directions: In giving directions, opposite is used to describe a location that is directly across from another. For example, “The store is located on the opposite side of the street.”
However, in other contexts, contrary might be the better choice. For example:
- Opinions: When discussing opinions, contrary is often used to describe a view that is different or opposed to another. For example, “My opinion is contrary to yours.”
- Behavior: When describing behavior, contrary is often used to describe actions that are opposite to what is expected or desired. For example, “Her behavior was contrary to the rules.”
It is important to consider the context in which opposite and contrary are being used in order to choose the most appropriate word.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the usage of opposite and contrary may seem straightforward, there are some exceptions to the rules that must be taken into consideration.
1. Contextual Usage
One exception to the rules for using opposite and contrary is the contextual usage of the words. In certain contexts, the words may be used interchangeably despite their distinct meanings. For instance:
- The opposite/contrary of love is hate.
- The opposite/contrary of black is white.
In these examples, both opposite and contrary can be used without changing the meaning of the sentence.
2. Technical Usage
Another exception to the rules for using opposite and contrary is their technical usage in specific fields. In mathematics, for example, opposite and contrary have different meanings:
| Opposite | Contrary |
|---|---|
| Two numbers that have the same absolute value but different signs | Two propositions that cannot both be true but can both be false |
It is important to note that these technical definitions do not apply to their general usage in everyday language.
3. Regional Differences
Lastly, there may be regional differences in the usage of opposite and contrary. For instance, in British English, contrary is often used in place of opposite:
- The contrary of hot is cold.
- The contrary of yes is no.
However, in American English, opposite is more commonly used in these contexts.
It is essential to be aware of these exceptions to ensure proper usage of opposite and contrary in various contexts.
Practice Exercises
Now that we have discussed the differences between opposite and contrary, it’s time to put that knowledge into practice. Below are some practice exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these terms in sentences.
Exercise 1
For each of the following pairs of words, determine whether they are opposite or contrary:
| Words | Opposite or Contrary? |
|---|---|
| Hot/Cold | Opposite |
| Love/Hate | Contrary |
| Fast/Slow | Opposite |
| Good/Evil | Contrary |
Answer Key:
- Hot/Cold – Opposite
- Love/Hate – Contrary
- Fast/Slow – Opposite
- Good/Evil – Contrary
Exercise 2
Complete the following sentences with the correct form of opposite or contrary:
- Some people believe that the __________ of love is hate.
- The weather today is the __________ of yesterday’s weather.
- His actions were the __________ of what he had promised.
- The two politicians held __________ views on the issue.
Answer Key:
- Some people believe that the contrary of love is hate.
- The weather today is the opposite of yesterday’s weather.
- His actions were the opposite of what he had promised.
- The two politicians held contrary views on the issue.
By completing these exercises, you should have a better understanding of the differences between opposite and contrary, and how to use them correctly in sentences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is essential to understand the difference between opposite and contrary. These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings in grammar and language use. Opposite refers to things that are completely different, while contrary refers to things that are in opposition or conflict with each other.
It is important to use these terms correctly to avoid confusion and miscommunication. When writing, it is crucial to be precise and accurate in the language used to convey the intended message.
Key takeaways from this article include:
- The difference between opposite and contrary
- The importance of using these terms correctly
- The significance of precise language in effective communication
As language and grammar are complex subjects, it is always beneficial to continue learning. Resources such as grammar books, online courses, and language forums can help individuals improve their writing skills and expand their knowledge of grammar and language use.
By continuing to learn and improve, individuals can communicate their ideas effectively and accurately, making them more successful in their personal and professional lives.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.