# opposing

/əˈpoʊzɪŋ/ (US) · /əpˈəʊzɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/opposing
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. competing or disagreeing

adjective · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

### 2. facing or opposite

adjective · CEFR B2

facing something from the other side.

For teachers: 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.

### 3. disagreeing with

verb · CEFR B2

the action of disagreeing with or trying to stop something.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The two teams have opposing views on the new rules.
- The lawyer presented evidence from an opposing witness to challenge the defendant's story.
- The conflict arose from two fundamentally opposing philosophies regarding how the natural resources of the region should be managed for future generations.

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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.