The Village Idiom

worlds apart

The idiom "worlds apart" means to be completely different or opposite from each other.

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In a sentence

  • Although they grew up in the same city, the two brothers have completely different views on politics and are worlds apart.
  • The movie portrays a love story about two individuals from different social classes who are worlds apart.
  • The teacher's teaching style and the student's learning style are worlds apart, making it difficult for them to connect and understand each other.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "worlds apart" is often used to describe two things or people that are extremely different or distant from each other. It conveys the idea of a significant separation or contrast between the two entities being referred to.

The origins and etymology of the idiom "worlds apart" are unclear. It is believed to have emerged in the English language during the late 19th or early 20th century, indicating that it has been in use for over a century.

In its idiomatic use, "worlds apart" emphasizes the vast differences between two or more things. It highlights disparities in values, beliefs, lifestyles, or characteristics. This idiom often suggests a degree of incompatibility or divergence that is difficult to bridge or overcome.

The idiom "worlds apart" can describe contrasting personalities, cultures, opinions, or even physical distances. It is commonly used in both formal and informal speech, as well as in written texts, to emphasize the vast disparities between different entities or experiences.

Furthermore, "worlds apart" expresses the idea of separation not only in a physical sense but also in an emotional or intellectual sense. It serves as a metaphor to articulate the immense gaps or divisions that may exist between individuals, groups, or even entire societies.

The idiom "poles apart" is closely related to "worlds apart." It signifies an even greater level of difference or opposition between two things. It suggests that the entities being referred to are as different as the opposite ends of the Earth, or the poles.

The idiom "outside world" can also be connected to "worlds apart." While "worlds apart" expresses the idea of separation or contrast, "outside world" implies the existence of a distinct or separate realm beyond one's immediate environment or experience. It suggests a perspective or reality that is different from one's own.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.