What does “Apples and oranges” mean?
"Apples and oranges" means comparing two things that are very different and cannot be compared.
What context can I use the in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Example
Comparing the two is like comparing apples and oranges.
Comparing the two is like comparing apples and oranges.
Example
You can't compare their skills, it's like comparing apples and oranges.
You can't compare their skills, it's like comparing apples and oranges.
Example
Trying to decide which is better is like comparing apples and oranges
Trying to decide which is better is like comparing apples and oranges
Is “Apples and oranges” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Apples and oranges” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Apples and oranges” effectively in context?
You can use "Apples and oranges" to emphasize that two things being compared are very different and cannot be compared. For example, if someone tries to compare two completely unrelated topics or objects, you might say, 'Comparing the two is like comparing apples and oranges.'
- 1Comparing Skills
You can't compare their skills, it's like comparing apples and oranges.
You can't compare their skills, it's like comparing apples and oranges.
- 2Making a Choice
Trying to decide which is better is like comparing apples and oranges.
Trying to decide which is better is like comparing apples and oranges.
- 3Contrasting Ideas
Their opinions on the matter are like comparing apples and oranges.
Their opinions on the matter are like comparing apples and oranges.
Similar phrases to “Apples and oranges”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Apples and oranges” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Apples and oranges" is unknown.
Is “Apples and oranges” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Apples and oranges" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to highlight the differences between two things that cannot be compared.
What tone does “Apples and oranges” have?
"Apples and oranges" conveys a tone of emphasizing the dissimilarity between two things. It's often used to make a point about the incomparability of certain aspects or ideas.
Can “Apples and oranges” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "apples and oranges" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of comparing two things that are very different and cannot be compared. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Comparing their skills is like comparing apples and oranges.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That's like comparing "apples and oranges"!' to imply the incomparability of two things.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- incomparable
- differences like night and day
- like comparing chalk and cheese
- like comparing black and white
