# opposing force

CEFR B2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/opposing-force
Updated: 2026-07-28

## Definition

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

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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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.