1
Contrast alternatives
Distinguish one option from another.
Example
The model uses observed data as opposed to estimates.
as opposed to
/æz əˈpəʊzd tuː/ · az uh-POHZD toocontrast phrase
Rather than; in contrast with the alternative named.
Use as opposed to to signal this exact relationship between ideas: rather than; in contrast with the alternative named.
What as opposed to Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Clarify category
State what something is by contrasting what it is not.
Example
The work is satire as opposed to documentary history.
3
Express preference
Frame a choice between competing methods.
Example
The team favoured repair as opposed to replacement.
Use as opposed to Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The model uses observed data as opposed to estimates.
The work is satire as opposed to documentary history.
The team favoured repair as opposed to replacement.
Precision Matters
As opposed to overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
as opposed to
vs.Signals rather than; in contrast with the alternative named.
rather than
Means in preference to or instead of.
as opposed to
vs.Signals rather than; in contrast with the alternative named.
at odds with
Means in conflict, disagreement, or incompatibility with.
as opposed to
vs.Signals rather than; in contrast with the alternative named.
apart from
Means except for, or in addition to, depending on context.
as opposed to
vs.Signals rather than; in contrast with the alternative named.
although
Means despite the fact that; introduces a subordinate concession.
Test as opposed to in Context
The sentence contrasts two alternative sources of data.
1
The analysis relies on measurements taken in the field ___ values estimated by the software.