English Reference

Word

opposing

Phoneticsop·pos·ing, stress on the second syllable

US/əˈpoʊzɪŋ/

UK/əpˈəʊzɪŋ/

Definitions

01competing or disagreeing

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. belonging to a different side in a fight, game, or argument.

adj. characterised by conflict, competition, or disagreement; often used to describe teams, political parties, or viewpoints.

“The two opposing teams shook hands before the match started.”

“Despite their opposing views on economic policy, the two candidates maintained a level of professional respect throughout the debate.”

02facing or opposite

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. facing something from the other side.

adj. situated on the opposite side or in a position facing something else.

“He lived in the building on the opposing side of the street.”

“The architect placed large windows on opposing walls to create a natural cross-breeze during the summer months.”

Synonyms

Antonyms

adjacentsame-side

03disagreeing with

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. the action of disagreeing with or trying to stop something.

v. the present participle of 'oppose', indicating active resistance or disagreement.

“Many local people are opposing the plan to build a new shopping mall.”

“By opposing the new legislation, the senator risked losing the support of the more moderate members of her party.”

Usage

As a participle, it often follows a subject to describe an ongoing state of resistance.

Real-World Examples

“Cooperation and competition are not necessarily opposing forces.”
ScienceDaily 6 Aug 2026
“The old Hills council had been opposing a Toplace development at Cherrybrook.”
The Guardian 28 Aug 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Common
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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