What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
opposing
Example
The opposing teams clashed on the field, each trying to win. [opposing: adjective]
Example
She took an opposing view to his argument, stating her own position. [opposing: present participle]
opposite
Example
The opposite of hot is cold. [opposite: noun]
Example
He sat opposite me at the table, facing me directly. [opposite: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Opposite is more commonly used than opposing in everyday language. Opposite is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while opposing is less common and typically used in specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between opposing and opposite?
Both opposing and opposite can be used in formal and informal contexts, but opposing may be more commonly used in academic or professional settings where precise language is required to describe conflicts or disagreements.
