How Do You Spell OPPOSITE?

Pronunciation: [ˈɒpəsˌɪt] (IPA)

The word "opposite" is spelled with four syllables, pronounced /ˈɒp.ə.zɪt/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable begins with the "ah" sound as in "hot" or "rock," followed by the "puh" sound as in "put" or "puff." The third syllable is pronounced with the "zit" sound, as in "sit" or "kit." The final syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, similar to the "uh" sound in "butter" or "sofa." Together, these sounds form the word "opposite," meaning completely different or contrary.

OPPOSITE Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "opposite" is an adjective that describes something or someone that is completely different or diametrically opposed to another object, idea, or person. It signifies the complete contrast or antithesis in characteristics, qualities, direction, or nature between two entities.

    When referring to objects or things, "opposite" denotes the reverse or contrary position, direction, or placement. For instance, it can be used to describe two sides or ends of an object that face different directions, such as the opposite sides of a square or the opposite ends of a spectrum.

    In terms of ideas, concepts, or opinions, "opposite" suggests a striking contrast or contradiction. It entails a stark divergence or contradiction between two perspectives, beliefs, or viewpoints. For example, political ideologies might be described as opposite if they advocate for opposing policies or principles.

    Regarding individuals or personalities, "opposite" indicates a fundamental disparity or distinction in nature, temperament, character, or behavior. It highlights the marked dissimilarity or contrasting qualities between two people. For instance, two people with opposite personalities might exhibit traits that are completely unlike one another, such as introversion versus extroversion.

    Overall, "opposite" encompasses the idea of complete dissimilarity, contrast, or contradiction between two entities, whether they are objects, ideas, or individuals. It signifies a clear distinction or opposition in characteristics, qualities, or nature.

  2. • Standing or placed in front; facing; contrary; in bot., applied to leaves placed on opposite sides of a stem at the same level.
    • The reverse; that which is the contrary.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for OPPOSITE *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for OPPOSITE

Etymology of OPPOSITE

The word opposite derives from the Old French term opposet or opposite, which originated from the Latin word oppositus, the past participle of opponere. Opponere is a compound of ob (meaning against or in the way) and ponere (meaning to place or to put). Hence, opposet initially conveyed the idea of something being placed or set against or in front of another. Over time, this meaning evolved to refer to things that are contrary or completely different from each other, resulting in the modern understanding of opposite.

Idioms with the word OPPOSITE

  • be different/opposite sides of the same coin, at be two sides of the same coin The idiom "be different/opposite sides of the same coin" or "be two sides of the same coin" refers to the situation where two seemingly opposite or contrasting things are actually related or interconnected in some way. It implies that despite the apparent differences, the two things share a common underlying nature or are part of the same overall concept or problem.
  • opposite sex The idiom "opposite sex" refers to individuals of the gender that is considered different or complementary to one's own. It is commonly used to indicate males and females who are not of the same gender.
  • at opposite poles The idiom "at opposite poles" refers to two ideas, beliefs, opinions, or situations that are completely and fundamentally opposed to each other. It suggests a stark contrast or extreme difference between two entities or perspectives.
  • on opposite sides of the barricade(s) The idiom "on opposite sides of the barricade(s)" refers to a situation where two or more individuals or groups are in strong disagreement or conflict, often representing opposing viewpoints, ideologies, or interests. It implies a deep divide between the involved parties, as if they were physically separated by barricades, unable to communicate or reach a consensus.
  • be opposite sides of the same coin The idiom "be opposite sides of the same coin" is used to describe two things or individuals that may seem very different or in opposition to each other at first glance, but are actually closely connected or similar in some fundamental way. It suggests that despite apparent differences, the two share a commonality or are part of the same overall concept or situation.
  • opposite sides of the same coin The idiom "opposite sides of the same coin" means that two things or people may seem different or opposing on the surface, but they are fundamentally connected or similar in some way. It implies that two opposing ideas, concepts, or individuals share a common origin or have similar characteristics despite appearing different at first glance.
  • (one's) opposite number The idiom "(one's) opposite number" refers to a person who holds a position or role that is equivalent or corresponding to one's own, typically in a different organization or group. It implies a sense of similarity or counterpart between two individuals who share comparable responsibilities or functions.
  • your opposite number The idiom "your opposite number" refers to a person who holds a position or role that is opposite or equivalent to yours in a different organization, team, or group. It is commonly used in business or diplomatic contexts, where individuals may need to interact or negotiate with their counterparts from other companies, institutions, or countries.

Similar spelling words for OPPOSITE

Plural form of OPPOSITE is OPPOSITES

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