Enemy: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is actively hostile or unfriendly, often in the context of war or a personal vendetta.

• The two countries were sworn enemies for decades
• He considered his former best friend his enemy after the betrayal

A more formal or old-fashioned term used to describe someone who is against another, often in literature or epic stories.

• The hero and his foe clashed in a final battle
• No foe could stand against their combined strength

Commonly used in competitive scenarios, such as sports, debate, or other activities where there are clear sides.

• He trained hard to defeat his opponent in the boxing match
• Each debate team must prepare arguments to counter their opponents

Typically used in formal or literary contexts to describe someone who opposes or competes with another in a conflict or contest.

• In the chess tournament, she faced many skilled adversaries
• He met his adversary in the courtroom

Generally refers to someone who competes with another for a goal, often creating a sense of ongoing competition.

• She always viewed her classmate as a rival for the top spot
• The two companies have been business rivals for years

Best used when referring to someone or something that is in direct opposition to you, typically in a hostile or combative way.

• The city was under siege by their enemies
• She considered him her enemy after he betrayed her

Can be used similarly to 'enemy', often in a dramatic or literary context, conveying a strong sense of opposition or danger.

• He finally defeated his longtime foe
• In the story, the hero must confront her greatest foe

Refers to someone against whom you are competing or arguing in a more neutral, often less hostile, context. Commonly used in sports, debates, or any kind of contest.

• Her opponent in the finals was very strong
• He respected his opponent's skills despite their differences

Typically describes someone you are competing or fighting against in a formal context, often used in legal, sports, or competitive environments.

• He faced a formidable adversary in court
• The chess champion finally met his adversary

Generally used to describe someone you are competing with for the same goal, often implying a long-term and ongoing competition, not necessarily hostile.

• They were rivals in business for decades
• Her academic rival scored higher on the test this time