Opponent

oh-po-nuhnt

/əˈpoʊ.nənt/

Noun

Meaning

  • An opponent is a person or group who competes against or disagrees with another in a contest, argument, or conflict.
  • It refers to someone who is on the opposite side.

Examples

  • He defeated his opponent in the final match.
  • Political opponents often debate different ideas and policies.
  • She respected her opponent’s skills even after winning the game.
  • Every chess player must carefully study their opponent.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms Antonyms
Rival Competitor Adversary Challenger Enemy Teammate Ally Partner Supporter Friend

Word Forms

  • Opponents (plural)
  • Oppose (verb)
  • Opposition (noun)
  • Opposing (adjective)

Origin / Etymology

From Latin opponere meaning “to place against,” formed from ob (against) + ponere (to place). Entered English through Old French as opponent meaning “one who argues against.”

Grammar Information

  • Usually used as a countable noun.
  • Common structure: opponent + in + competition | opponent + of + idea/decision
  • Used in both formal and informal contexts.

Translations

  • Hindi: प्रतिद्वंदी / विरोधी
  • Spanish: oponente
  • French: adversaire
  • German: Gegner
  • Tamil: எதிராளி
  • Arabic: خصم

Idioms & Phrases

  • Strong opponent – a tough person to defeat
  • Face your opponent – compete or confront directly
  • Political opponent – someone opposing in politics or debate

Related Words

  • Competition
  • Conflict
  • Duel
  • Contest
  • Battle