Definition

Adverb: - In a completely opposite or contrary manner: "diametrically" describes a situation where two things, ideas, or positions are in direct and total opposition, as if at opposite ends of a diameter.

Usage

"Diametrically" is almost exclusively used to modify adjectives like "opposite" or "opposed" to emphasize a complete and fundamental opposition. It describes a relationship of extreme contrast.

Examples

• Their political views are diametrically opposed. (Their political views are in complete and total opposition.)
• The two studies reached diametrically opposite conclusions from the same data. (The two studies reached conclusions that are completely contrary to each other.)
• My opinion on the matter is diametrically different from hers. (My opinion is in direct and total contrast to hers.)

Advanced Usage

• "diametrically opposed": This is the most common collocation, meaning in direct and total conflict.
  • The brothers' personalities are diametrically opposed; one is an extrovert, the other a recluse.
• "diametrically opposite": Used to describe positions, directions, or ideas that are direct opposites.
  • The two philosophies are diametrically opposite in their approach to human nature.

Variants and Related Words

• Diameter (n): A straight line passing from side to side through the center of a circle or sphere.
• Diametrical (adj): Relating to or along a diameter; (of opposites) complete and absolute.
  • There was a diametrical disagreement between the two parties.

Synonyms

• Directly (as in "directly opposite")
• Completely
• Absolutely (as in "absolutely opposed")
• Polar (as in "polar opposites")

Antonyms

• Similarly
• Identically
• Correspondingly

Notes

The word originates from the geometric concept of a diameter, where two points at opposite ends are as far apart as possible within a circle. This spatial metaphor is applied to abstract concepts to denote maximum difference or opposition.

Adverb

1. as from opposite ends of a diameter
   • when two honest witnesses give accounts of the same event that differ diametrically, how can anyone prove that the evidence you gave was deliberately false?
   • three of these brushes were approximately 120 feet apart and the fourth diametrically opposite to one of the three