opponent
word
/əˈpoʊnənt/
uh-POH-nuhnt
/əpˈəʊnənt/
uh-POH-nuhnt
Definition
A person or team that you compete against in a game, contest, debate, or argument.
Usage & Nuances
'Opponent' is neutral and often used in sports, politics, or debates. Use 'enemy' for a more hostile relationship, and 'rival' for someone you regularly compete with. Common phrases include 'strong opponent' or 'political opponent'.
Spanish: oponente - rivalPortuguese (BR): oponente - adversárioPortuguese (PT): oponente - adversárioChinese (Simplified): 对手 - 敌手Chinese (Traditional): 對手 - 敵手Hindi: प्रतिद्वंद्वी - विरोधीArabic: خصم - منافسBengali: প্রতিদ্বন্দ্বী - প্রতিপক্ষRussian: противник - оппонентJapanese: 対戦相手 - 相手Vietnamese: đối thủKorean: 상대 - 상대자Turkish: rakip - karşı tarafUrdu: حریف - مخالفIndonesian: lawan - pesaing
Example Sentences
He is a tough opponent in chess.
basic
Her opponent scored the winning goal.
basic
The politician faced many opponents during the debate.
basic
I'm nervous about my next opponent—she's last year's champion.
natural
Sometimes your strongest opponent teaches you the most.
natural
My opponent kept surprising me with creative moves.
natural