on opposite sides of the barricades: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘on opposite sides of the barricades’ mean?
The idiom "on opposite sides of the barricades" means to have conflicting opinions, beliefs, or positions in a particular situation or issue.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "take sides" means to choose or support one person, group, or opinion over another, often in a conflict or disagreement.
The idiom "run afoul of" means to come into conflict or opposition with someone or something, often resulting in negative consequences or punishment.
The idiom "poles apart" means two things or people being extremely different or having opposite opinions or beliefs.
"Play both sides against the middle" means to manipulate or exploit two opposing parties or groups in order to benefit oneself or reach a personal advantage. This idiom suggests a strategic move of pitting two opposing forces against each other while positioning oneself in the middle to leverage the situation for personal gain.
The idiom "pit against" means to set two or more people or things against each other or in competition. It implies a confrontational or competitive situation where one is pitted against another.
The idiom "parting of the ways" refers to a situation where two or more people or groups are going in different directions or have different opinions, leading to a separation or disagreement.
The idiom "part company" means to separate or go in different directions, often due to a disagreement or conflict. It can also refer to the end of a relationship or partnership.
The idiom "over the hills and far away" means to be in a distant or unreachable place, often used to describe someone who is escaping or avoiding a situation.
The idiom "out of place" means something or someone not in the correct or suitable position, situation, or context.
Hidden Dualities
The idiom "on opposite sides of the barricades" is often used to describe a situation where different people or groups hold opposing views or positions on a specific issue or conflict. This phrase originates from the French word "barricade," which refers to a temporary barrier made from various objects such as furniture, stones, or debris, and is commonly used for defense during riots or protests.
To fully understand the meaning of this idiom, it's crucial to consider the historical context of barricades. Throughout history, during revolutions and uprisings like the French Revolution or the barricades of May 1968 in France, opposing factions would position themselves on opposite sides or behind barricades, ready to confront each other with conflicting goals and ideals.
This idiom implies a profound disagreement or conflict where the involved parties are unwilling to compromise or find common ground. It emphasizes the concept of physical separation and the often hostile atmosphere that accompanies such conflicts.
The figurative usage of "on opposite sides of the barricades" suggests that the individuals or groups in question have fundamentally different beliefs, values, or objectives, leading them to confront one another. This idiom highlights the intensity and polarization of opposing viewpoints, making it challenging for them to reach a resolution or find common understanding.
It is essential to note that this idiom applies not only to political or social contexts but also to various situations involving disagreement or conflict, such as personal relationships, business negotiations, or even artistic disputes. In any context, this idiom conveys a sense of division, entrenched positions, and a lack of willingness to compromise.
When using the idiom "on opposite sides of the barricades," it is crucial to have an understanding of its historical origin and the nuanced meaning it carries. The image of opposing forces facing each other behind physical barriers helps create a vivid depiction of irreconcilable differences and the potential for confrontations.
While this idiom draws attention to the conflict and separation between parties, it also leaves room for the possibility of resolution or understanding. It implies that under certain circumstances, the barriers may be dismantled, allowing for a potential change in perspectives or a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The idiom "take sides" is closely related to "on opposite sides of the barricades." When people are "on opposite sides of the barricades," they have already taken opposing positions. The idiom "take sides" refers to the act of choosing a position or aligning oneself with one party or another in a dispute or conflict. It signifies that a person is actively showing support or agreement for one side over the other.
When individuals "take sides" in a situation, they align themselves with a particular group, ideology, or perspective. This choice indicates their willingness to support and defend the interests and viewpoints of the side they have chosen. "Taking sides" can intensify the division between opposing parties and contribute to the escalation of conflicts.
The related idiom "one side" emphasizes the presence of a single perspective or viewpoint within a situation. When someone says "there are two sides to every story," they acknowledge that different people may have different interpretations or narratives about the same event or situation. This idiom suggests that understanding the full picture requires considering multiple perspectives or sides.
In the context of "on opposite sides of the barricades," the idiom "one side" highlights the notion that each party involved may have their own valid reasons, arguments, or beliefs. This recognition brings attention to the complexity of conflicts and reminds us that there is often more than one viewpoint to consider.
The idiom "on opposite sides of the barricades" describes a situation where different individuals or groups hold opposing views or positions on a specific issue or conflict. It signifies a profound disagreement or conflict, emphasizing the intensity and polarization of opposing viewpoints. The related idioms "take sides" and "one side" add depth to the understanding of this expression, highlighting the choices individuals make in aligning themselves with a particular party or recognizing the presence of multiple perspectives within a conflict.
Example usage
Examples:
- During the political debate, John and Mary found themselves on opposite sides of the barricades, with completely different opinions.
- The two rival gangs were always on opposite sides of the barricades, constantly fighting for control of the neighborhood.
- In the labor dispute, the workers and the company were on opposite sides of the barricades, negotiating for better conditions and higher wages.
Explanation:
The idiom "on opposite sides of the barricades" is used metaphorically to describe a situation where two or more parties have opposing views, opinions, or objectives. It originates from the literal sense of barricades, which are physical barriers erected during conflicts or protests to separate opposing forces.
In the examples provided, the idiom is used to highlight situations of disagreement or conflict between individuals or groups. In the first example, John and Mary have different political views and find themselves on opposing sides, indicating a strong divergence of opinion. The second example depicts rival gangs continuously clashing and fighting for control, suggesting a deep-seated animosity and opposing goals. Lastly, the third example reflects a labor dispute where the workers and the company have conflicting interests and are negotiating from opposing positions.
Overall, the idiom "on opposite sides of the barricades" is used to emphasize the existence of a stark contrast or opposition between parties.
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