Opponents: meaning, definitions and examples

Suitable for describing individuals or teams in a competition, debate, or conflict where they are on opposing sides.

• The basketball game was intense, with both opponents playing their best
• During the debate, his opponents challenged his views vigorously

Typically used to denote a more serious or significant enemy, often in a conflict, battle, or a strategic context. The term carries a stronger sense of opposition.

• In the movie, the hero had to face his greatest adversary
• He considered his main business adversary to be a formidable challenge

Used to describe someone who competes closely with another, often implying a more personal or ongoing competition. Can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation.

• She has been my academic rival since high school
• The two tech giants are fierce rivals in the smartphone industry

Primarily used in business, sports, or any competitive environment to describe someone who is competing for the same goal or prize.

• They have always been our toughest competitor in the market
• The competitors lined up at the start of the race

This is often used in sports or games to refer to the individuals or teams competing against each other.

• In the final match, our opponents played very well
• During the chess tournament, he had to face many tough opponents

Used to refer to a group or a body of people that is against another group, often in political or formal debates.

• The new policy faced strong opposition from the public
• In the parliament, the opposition party disagreed with the proposal

A more formal or literary term for enemy, often used in books, movies, or formal speeches.

• In ancient tales, the hero must overcome the mighty foe
• Despite being lifelong foes, they found common ground

This word has a strong, often negative connotation, referring to someone who is actively hostile or opposed to someone else, often used in the context of war or personal conflict.

• During the war, they considered each other as enemies
• He saw her as an enemy after the betrayal