at two extremes vs between two extremes

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'At two extremes' is used when referring to two opposite or contrasting points or situations. 'Between two extremes' is used when describing the range or spectrum between two opposite points.

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Last updated: February 25, 2025 • 6504 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to two opposite or contrasting points or situations.

"at two extremes"

This phrase is used to describe situations where two points are at the farthest ends of a spectrum or range, emphasizing the contrast or difference between them.

Examples:

The opinions on the matter were at two extremes, with some strongly in favor and others vehemently against.
Her emotions were at two extremes, swinging from joy to despair in a matter of minutes.

Show examples from the web [+]

Let me first show you two extremes.
But, of course, these are the two extremes.
Our vote will therefore be targeted at finding the right balance between the two extremes.
My Group of the European United Left has introduced two extremes to this debate.
The follow-up conference on climate change in Bonn produced two extremes.
Many shades of opinion were expressed between these two extremes.
Categories B and C cover contract work between the two extremes.
And this is where the two extremes meet and become harmful to our health.
Achieving a balance between the two extremes is not easy.
As always, the truth is somewhere between the two extremes.
I believe that we are achieving that balance between the two extremes.
We have seen two extremes from the Eurobarometer.
Two extreme positions should be avoided, he said: It would be wrong to pretend nothing has happened and continue as usual.
The EMEES model could be a happy medium between the two extremes.
You have two extremes, right?
In fact, so far the World Trade Organisation has only declared two extremes incompatible with international commercial law.
If the truth be told, the two extreme scenarios are not very helpful in this discussion.
And for me, the path between these two extremes takes the shape of a wave.
Two extreme positions should be avoided, he said: It would be wrong to pretend nothing has happened and continue as usual.
European policymakers were faced with the task of reconciling these two extremes and making the practical application of radiation treatment possible.

Alternatives:

at opposite ends
at polar opposites
at the far extremes
at the opposite extremes
at the two extremes

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when describing the range or spectrum between two opposite points.

"between two extremes"

This phrase is used to describe the middle ground or range between two opposite points or situations, highlighting the contrast or variation within that range.

Examples:

The solution lies between two extremes, finding a balance that satisfies both sides.
His views on the topic fall between two extremes, offering a nuanced perspective.

Show examples from the web [+]

And it is not easy to find your place between two extremes.
I don't want to be caught between two extremes!
Mr President, today the EU Member States are wavering between two extremes: stand-offishness and distance towards the USA, or wholehearted support which overrides European interests.
If we become split between two extreme positions over whether or not there should be overall regulation of the issue, I think we will be heading towards a confrontation that will not be in the overall interests of Europe as we understand it.
The approach to issues relating to the granting of asylum has swung between two extreme perspectives, neither of which has, in practice, proved an effective means of resolving the problem.
Many shades of opinion were expressed between these two extremes.
Achieving a balance between the two extremes is not easy.
I believe that we are achieving that balance between the two extremes.
As always, the truth is somewhere between the two extremes.
Our vote will therefore be targeted at finding the right balance between the two extremes.
Categories B and C cover contract work between the two extremes.
And for me, the path between these two extremes takes the shape of a wave.
However, I should like to point out that there is a grey area between these two extremes.
We will have a number of more difficult cases to assess for employers between those two extremes that I have given as an example.
I have been well aware that you had to steer a course between the two extremes.
The EMEES model could be a happy medium between the two extremes.
The Council must take this new opportunity to bring its considerable influence to bear by speaking with one voice in the negotiations, and by seeking compromises between the two extremes.
However between these two extremes there is a path that we can take, that leads to a compromise.
So, between these two extremes, what should we do?
Where do urban-rural interdependencies fit in between these two extremes, and how does the Commission intend to take them into account as part of an integrated local development approach?

Alternatives:

in the middle of two extremes
within the spectrum of two extremes
amidst two extremes
within the range of two extremes
in the space between two extremes

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at two extremes vs between two extremes

"at two extremes"

"between two extremes"

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