adjective / adverb HSK 4
opposite · contrary · on the contrary · conversely
Meaning
相反 means 'opposite' or 'contrary' and can function as an adjective describing things that are opposed to each other, or as an adverb meaning 'on the contrary' or 'conversely.' It's commonly used to express contrast between two ideas, situations, or directions.
Usage
Native speakers frequently use 相反 to introduce a contrasting statement, often at the beginning of a sentence meaning 'on the contrary.' It can also describe two things as being opposite in nature (意见相反 'opposite opinions'). In formal writing and speech, it's a standard way to show logical contrast.
Examples
- 01我以为他会生气，相反，他却笑了。, , .I thought he would be angry, but on the contrary, he smiled.
- 02他们两个人的性格完全相反。.The two of them have completely opposite personalities.
Characters
Common collocations
- 恰恰相反exactly the opposite
- 正好相反just the opposite
- 完全相反completely opposite
- 截然相反diametrically opposite
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 相 (mutually) and 反 (opposite/reverse) to create the meaning of 'mutually opposite' or 'opposite to each other.'