adjective / noun / preposition / adverb
opposite
AHP-uh-zit/ˈɑːpəzɪt/
Situated across from or facing something.
The open doorway is opposite the closed doorway across the hall.
Etymology
The pieces express being “set against” something. This first described placement across from something else, then extended to things facing one another figuratively as complete contrasts in character or nature.
In context
This is an excellent example of the opposite leaf pattern. Plants that have opposite leaves look like they grow in pairs or opposite each other.
More examples
- A large mirror hangs on the opposite wall.
- She sits opposite me at the kitchen table.
- I take one seat, and she sits opposite.
Forms
opposite
Similar words
- facing
- Emphasizes orientation toward something, not necessarily a location across from it.
- across from
- Specifies location on another side without necessarily implying orientation.