Oppose: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this in formal situations where you are against an idea, plan, or person officially or strongly.

• She decided to oppose the new policy in the meeting.
• Many residents oppose the construction of the new highway.

Appropriate when someone attempts to fight off or prevent something, often in physical, mental, or emotional sense.

• She tried to resist the temptation to eat the cake.
• They managed to resist the enemy forces.

Use this when you need to state the opposite of what someone else has said, often used in discussions or arguments.

• The witness's testimony seemed to contradict the evidence.
• It is not polite to contradict your teacher.

Best for situations where you question the validity or correctness of something, often in a constructive or competitive way.

• He decided to challenge the accuracy of the report.
• She loves to challenge herself with difficult tasks.

Most suitable when you are going against authority or rules intentionally and openly, often with a sense of rebellion.

• The protesters decided to defy the government order.
• He defied his parents and went out late at night.

Use this for everyday conversations to express a simple difference of opinion, usually in a less confrontational way.

• I disagree with you on that point.
• Let's agree to disagree and move on.

Used when expressing disagreement with a person, proposal, or idea in a general or strong manner.

• The community members oppose the construction of the new factory
• She will oppose any changes to the current policy

Used when providing reasons or evidence against an idea or proposal, often in a debate or discussion.

• The lawyer argued against the defendant's plea
• Environmentalists argue against deforestation due to its impact on climate change

Used when responding to an argument or action by offering a strong opposing perspective or action.

• She countered his claims with solid evidence
• To counter the rising costs, the company introduced new budgeting measures

Used when arguing or debating about something, often involving conflicting viewpoints or claims.

• Scientists dispute the findings of the new research
• The two countries dispute the ownership of the island

Used in formal contexts to describe actions that break laws, rules, or agreements.

• His actions contravene international law
• The new policy contravenes the company's own guidelines

Used when specifically aiming to refute or disprove an argument or claim, often with strong evidence or reasoning.

• The senator rebutted allegations of misconduct
• The research team rebutted the criticisms of their study

Used when you are against an idea, plan, or someone’s actions. It is often used in political, social, or professional contexts.

• Many environmentalists oppose the new construction project.
• The senator opposed the new law.

Typically used in contexts involving competition, conflict, or struggle. It implies a more formal or serious opponent.

• In chess, you always need to be one step ahead of your adversary.
• The two countries have long been adversaries in global politics.

Used to describe someone who actively intends harm or acts against another. It often carries a strong negative connotation and is used in personal, political, or military contexts.

• The soldiers knew they had to face their enemy in the battle the next day.
• He considered anyone who criticized him an enemy.

Similar to 'enemy', but may be used in a slightly more formal or literary context. Also implies a strong opposition or enmity.

• He was a formidable foe on the battlefield.
• Literature often portrays the hero’s long-standing foe.

Used in competitive contexts, often with a focus on competition for the same goal or prize. It can apply to business, sports, academics, etc.

• The students enjoyed friendly rivalry in their academic achievements.
• These two companies have been rivals for market dominance for decades.

Used to describe someone who disagrees with the opinions, beliefs, or conduct of a large group, often in political, social, or religious contexts.

• The dissenter spoke out against the government's policies.
• Throughout history, dissenters have often faced severe punishment for their beliefs.