# oppose

/əˈpoʊz/ (US) · /əpˈəʊz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/oppose
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to disagree or resist

verb · CEFR B2

to disagree strongly with a plan, law, or idea and try to prevent it from happening.

For teachers: to resist or antagonize a proposal, policy, or action through argument or active obstruction.

- Many local people oppose the plan to build a new shopping mall in the park.
- The local council voted to oppose the proposed development, citing concerns over increased traffic and the loss of green space.

Usage: This verb is transitive and requires a direct object.

### 2. to compete against

verb · CEFR B2

to be the opponent of someone in a game, fight, or election.

For teachers: to compete against or contend with an adversary in a formal contest or conflict.

- The two teams will oppose each other in the final match this Saturday.
- In the upcoming general election, the incumbent will be opposed by a newcomer with radical views on economic reform.

Usage: Often used in the passive voice to describe who someone is playing against.

### 3. to place in contrast

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to put two things near each other to show how different they are.

For teachers: to set something in contrast or balance against another thing; to place in a position of physical or conceptual antithesis.

- The artist likes to oppose bright colours with dark shadows to create drama.
- The philosopher's latest essay seeks to oppose the traditional view of individual liberty with a more communal understanding of social responsibility.

Usage: Usually involves placing two abstract concepts or physical objects in direct comparison.

## Examples

- Many local residents oppose the plan to build a new highway.
- Several members of the committee decided to oppose the new law because they feared it would hurt small businesses.
- While the majority of the board supported the merger, a vocal minority continued to oppose the transition, citing concerns over long-term brand integrity and corporate culture.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.