Never the twain shall meet

Definition 1 of 1

Pro Tip 1/3

The phrase comes from a Kipling poem highlighting East and West cultures' differences.

He's from a rural background, and she's a city-dweller; never the twain shall meet.

Pro Tip 2/3

It's mostly used in spoken language to emphasize a sharp contrast.

As a minimalist, she avoids flashy cars—never the twain shall meet.

Pro Tip 3/3

Think of it as expressing a metaphorical distance that cannot be bridged.

In terms of politics, they are on extreme ends; never the twain shall meet.

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