opuesto
/oˈpwesto/
The English phrase 'opposite' is translated into Spanish as opuesto.
The adjective opuesto is used to describe things that are extremely different. In a literary context, you might use the term antítesis to express the concept of an opposite. If you wish to describe something that is in an opposite position, you can use the adverbial phrase al opósito. You can also use the synonym contrario to describe things that are fundamentally different or in opposition.
Meaning: extremely different (adj)
Which one should you use?
While opuesto is an adjective, adding the neuter article creates the noun phrase lo opuesto, which means 'the opposite thing' or 'the opposite concept'.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjective, opuesto must agree in both gender and number with the noun it modifies. Use opuesta for feminine singular nouns, opuestos for masculine plural nouns and opuestas for feminine plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/oˈpwesto/
Did you know?
- In Spanish, if you want to say someone is your 'complete opposite' in personality, you might say they are your polo opuesto, invoking the imagery of magnetic poles.
- The word opuesto comes from the Latin 'oppositus', which shares a root with the English word 'position'.
- To strongly disagree or correct an assumption, Spanish speakers often use the emphatic phrase todo lo contrario instead of just saying something is 'opposite'.
Examples in context
- Es justo lo opuesto.It's just the opposite.This sentence is useful for illustrating how to say 'the opposite' using opuesto.Tatoeba #1517611 by marcelostockle, translation #1517273 by CM
- Tenemos el problema opuesto.We have the opposite problem.This sentence shows how to use opuesto to describe a specific problem.Tatoeba #1488992 by marcelostockle, translation #1488257 by Spamster
- Tom tiene el problema opuesto.Tom has the opposite problem.This sentence shows how to use opuesto with a proper noun and a problem.Tatoeba #1411163 by marcelostockle, translation #1177554 by CK
- El lado contrario del río es muy pintoresco.The opposite side of the river is very picturesque.
- La opinión contraria fue expresada por el presidente.The opposite opinion was expressed by the president.
- El edificio opuesto al nuestro es muy moderno.The building opposite ours is very modern.
- Tenemos opiniones opuestas respecto a este tema.We have opposite opinions regarding this matter.
- ¡No, lo estás diciendo al revés!No, you're saying it the opposite way!
- La camisa de Carlos estaba al revés.Carlos' shirt was on backward.
- No quiero eso, quiero lo contrario.I don't want that, I want the opposite.
- El resultado fue todo lo contrario de lo que esperaba.The outcome was the complete opposite of what I expected.
- El enfoque contrapuesto del autor generó debate.The author's opposing approach sparked debate.
- Tenemos criterios contrapuestos sobre este tema.We have opposite criteria on this matter.
- 19 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Javier and Lucía are discussing their personalities.
- JavierSoy muy tímido, ¿y tú?I am very shy, and you?
- LucíaYo soy lo opuesto, me encanta hablar.I am the opposite, I love talking.
- JavierEs increíble que seamos tan diferentes.It is incredible that we are so different.
- LucíaSí, pero así nos complementamos.Yes, but that is how we complement each other.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry opuesto, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
