Be poles apart
phrase
To be vastly different or opposite in opinions, personalities, or characteristics.
Despite being twins, John and James are poles apart in terms of personality.
Often appears as...
- their opinions were poles apart
- personalities that are poles apart
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To be vastly different or opposite in opinions, personalities, or characteristics.
Despite being twins, John and James are poles apart in terms of personality.
Often appears as...
- their opinions were poles apart
- personalities that are poles apart
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Extreme Difference
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.
Pro Tip 2/3Not 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.
Pro Tip 3/3Negative 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.
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