# couldn't be more different

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/couldnt-be-more-different
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Two entities that have virtually nothing in common.

## Examples

- My brother and I couldn't be more different.
- Although they are identical twins, their personalities couldn't be more different.
- The two political candidates offered visions for the country that couldn't be more different, leaving voters with a stark choice.

## Origin

Attested as an ironic construction to denote that two entities are entirely distinct, the phrase provides a superlative comparison to emphasize a total absence of similarity.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.