Translation guide
This guide covers how to express the idea of being directly opposite in location, direction, or abstract contrast. It focuses on natural Japanese expressions for physical positioning and figurative opposition.
To say that something is located directly across from something else, or facing it exactly.
Used for things that are directly opposite each other, such as buildings or seats. Often used with に or の.
To express that two things are completely contrary or antithetical.
Do not translate 'directly opposite' word-for-word as 直接反対 (ちょくせつはんたい). This is not natural Japanese. Use 正反対 or 真向かい depending on context.
The bank is directly opposite the post office.
He sat directly opposite me.
Means 'directly in front' or 'facing'. Can be used for buildings or people. Often with に or の.
There is a big sign directly opposite the station.
The opposite side (of a street, table, etc.). Slightly less precise than 真向かい but very common.
The house directly opposite is vacant.
Means 'exact opposite' or 'diametrically opposed'. Used for opinions, characteristics, directions, etc.
His opinion is directly opposite to mine.
These two personalities are directly opposite.
Means 'reverse' or 'opposite'. Can be used in many contexts, but may not always convey the intensity of 'directly opposite'.
The result was the opposite of what I expected.
Literally 'opposite pole'. Used for extreme contrasts, often in formal or analytical contexts.
Their ways of thinking are at opposite poles.