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kitty-corner, cater-corner, diagonally opposite, on the diagonal

Some people say cater-corner, but most Canadians prefer kitty-corner to describe something placed on a diagonal to walls or other objects. In formal writing, phrases such as on the diagonal and diagonally opposite are preferred.

  • Francie’s store sat kitty-corner to (diagonally opposite) the Bayfield Post Office at the main intersection.
  • There would be more room to walk through the den if the wide-screen TV were placed kitty-corner (on the diagonal).