English Reference

Word

opposing force

Definition

compound. a person, group, or power that works against another one to stop it or slow it down.

compound. a person, group, or physical power that acts in opposition to another. In physics, it refers to a force acting in the opposite direction to another; in social or military contexts, it refers to an adversary or competing influence.

Examples

“The wind was a strong opposing force as we cycled home.”

“The new law passed quickly because there was no significant opposing force in the government.”

“The architect had to calculate the opposing force of the structural supports to ensure the bridge could withstand high-speed winds.”

Examples

simple

“The wind was a strong opposing force as we cycled home.”

contextual

“The new law passed quickly because there was no significant opposing force in the government.”

complex

“The architect had to calculate the opposing force of the structural supports to ensure the bridge could withstand high-speed winds.”

Usage

often used in technical contexts like physics or in formal descriptions of political and military conflict.

Teaching tip

useful for bridging the gap between literal physical science and figurative social science; contrast with 'enemy' to show a more neutral, functional relationship.

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
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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