opposing / contradictory
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opposing / contradictory
Describing two or more things, opinions, or qualities that conflict with each other or are completely different.
Die beiden Experten vertraten völlig gegensätzliche Standpunkte.
The two experts represented completely opposing viewpoints.
The adjective 'gegensätzlich' (opposing/contradictory) is derived from the noun 'der Gegensatz' (the opposite/contrast). If you know the noun, you can easily work out the meaning of the adjective.
Der Gegensatz zwischen Arm und Reich ist in dieser Stadt sehr groß.
The contrast between rich and poor is very great in this city.
When you want to express what something is opposite or contrary to, you use the preposition 'zu' followed by the dative.
Seine Meinung ist komplett gegensätzlich zu meiner.
His opinion is completely opposed to mine.
'Gegensätzlich' (opposing/contradictory) is very often combined with abstract nouns to describe contradictions. Typical phrases are 'gegensätzliche Meinungen' (opposing opinions), 'gegensätzliche Interessen' (conflicting interests), or 'gegensätzliche Aussagen' (contradictory statements).
Die beiden Parteien haben völlig gegensätzliche Interessen.
The two parties have completely conflicting interests.
contradictory
Both words describe things or statements that do not fit together. “Widersprüchlich” refers to a logical contradiction in which both things cannot be true at the same time. “Gegensätzlich,” on the other hand, can also describe simply opposing opinions or qualities, without there being a logical error.
Die beiden Meinungen im Bericht sind gegensätzlich, aber beide können begründet werden.
The two opinions in the report are opposing, but both can be supported with reasons.
Die beiden Aussagen im Bericht sind widersprüchlich und können nicht beide stimmen.
The two statements in the report are contradictory and cannot both be true.
