oppose
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
to disagree strongly with a plan, law, or idea and try to prevent it from happening.
to resist or antagonize a proposal, policy, or action through argument or active obstruction.
Simple“Many local people oppose the plan to build a new shopping mall in the park.”
In context“The local council voted to oppose the proposed development, citing concerns over increased traffic and the loss of green space.”
UsageThis verb is transitive and requires a direct object.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
to be the opponent of someone in a game, fight, or election.
to compete against or contend with an adversary in a formal contest or conflict.
Simple“The two teams will oppose each other in the final match this Saturday.”
In context“In the upcoming general election, the incumbent will be opposed by a newcomer with radical views on economic reform.”
UsageOften used in the passive voice to describe who someone is playing against.
Antonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
to put two things near each other to show how different they are.
to set something in contrast or balance against another thing; to place in a position of physical or conceptual antithesis.
Simple“The artist likes to oppose bright colours with dark shadows to create drama.”
In context“The philosopher's latest essay seeks to oppose the traditional view of individual liberty with a more communal understanding of social responsibility.”
UsageUsually involves placing two abstract concepts or physical objects in direct comparison.
“In turn that means those who oppose him risk appearing to be on the wrong side of the argument.”
“Some 16 percent said that “we should oppose the US”.”
From Middle English opposen, from Old French opposer, from Latin ob (“before, against”) + Medieval Latin pono (“to put”), taking the place of Latin opponere (“to oppose”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.