The phrase emphasizes a very strong or significant difference between two things or people. On the issue of environmental policy, the two candidates are poles apart.
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Not Spatial
It's a metaphorical expression; it doesn't mean physical distance, but figurative or ideological distance. In their approach to teaching, the old school and the new school are poles apart.
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Negative Connotation
It often implies that the difference is seen as a barrier to agreement or harmony. Although they're brothers, they are poles apart when it comes to politics.