Describing Qualities - Compatibility & Incompatibility

Discover how English idioms like "at cross purposes" and "fly in the teeth of" relate to compatibility and incompatibility in English.

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English Idioms used to Describe Qualities

at cross purposes

[phrase]

used to describe a situation in which people or groups have conflicting goals or intentions

Ex: The two political parties were discussing the at cross purposes, leading to a stalemate in finding a common solution .

on (a) par with somebody or something

[phrase]

used to convey that a person or thing is on the same level as someone or something else

Ex: The new restaurant 's quality of service on par with the finest dining establishments in the city .

out of place

[phrase]

not suitable for a particular situation

out of context

[phrase]

used of a statement or remark that is quoted in an incomplete or inaccurate way, often to the point that makes it hard to understand if not misunderstood

Ex: It is important to consider the historical background and cultural context when studying literature to avoid misinterpreting the author 's intentions and taking out of context.

at odds

[phrase]

(with reference to two things) in contrast to each other instead of correspondence

out of step with somebody or something

[phrase]

having ideas or beliefs that are in conflict with those of other people

to fly in the teeth of something

[phrase]

to be in complete disagreement with something

to lend itself to something

[phrase]

to naturally fit or suit a particular use or situation