op|po|nent

op|po|nent
op|po|nent «uh POH nuhnt», noun, adjective.
–n.
a person who is on the other side in a fight, game, or discussion; person fighting, struggling, or speaking against another: »

He defeated his opponent in the election.

–adj.
1. being opposite; opposing.
2. of or having to do with opposable muscles, such as those of the hand by which the fingers and thumb may be placed against each other, so as to pick up or hold something.
╂[< Latin oppōnēns, -entis, present participle of oppōnere set against < ob- against + pōnere place]
Synonym Study noun. Opponent, antagonist, adversary mean someone against a person or thing. Opponent applies to someone on the other side in an argument, game, or other contest, or against a plan, law, or other proposal, but does not suggest personal ill will: »

The system has its zealous supporters and equally zealous opponents.

Antagonist, more formal, suggests active, personal, and unfriendly opposition, often in a fight for power or control: »

Hamlet and his uncle were antagonists.

Adversary now usually means a hostile antagonist actively blocking or openly fighting another: »

Gamblers found a formidable adversary in the new district attorney.


Useful english dictionary. 2012.

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