English-grammar-lessons.co.uk

menu

Opposite Number

What Does "Opposite Number" Mean?

home▸idioms▸Opposite Number
"Opposite number" is an English idiom. It means "someone who holds a similar position, role, or job in a different organization or context."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "opposite number" used in a sentence:
  • In diplomacy, the ambassador of one country may have an opposite number in another country.
  • The CEO of our company often meets with her opposite number from our main competitor.
  • The two coaches discussed their strategies, recognizing each other as opposite numbers in the league.
meaning for opposite number

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Opposite Number" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

A Quick Test

You now know what "opposite number" means, but are you good at English idioms? Let's see!
silver cup

gold cup

bronze cup

  • This test has questions.
  • A correct answer is worth 5 points.
  • You can get up to 5 bonus points for a speedy answer.
  • Some questions demand more than one answer. You must get every part right.
  • Beware! Wrong answers score 0 points.
  • 🏆 If you beat one of the top 10 scores, you will be invited to apply for the Hall of Fame.
Scoring System

Cyber Guru (+)
Cyber Hero (+)
Cyber Captain (+)
Cyber Sergeant (+)
Cyber Recruit (+)
Help Us To Improve English Grammar Lessons
  • Do you disagree with something on this page?
  • Did you spot a typo?
Please tell us using this form.
Do you know your English idioms? idioms test

Take Our Test.

search icon

Search our idioms database. (We have 10,000+ idioms!)