Synonyms of opponent

opponent

noun

ə-ˈpō-nənt 

1

as in foe

one that takes a position opposite another in a competition or conflict

in martial arts, before the match begins, always bow to your opponent

Synonyms & Similar Words

• foe
• rival
• adversary
• competitor
• enemy
• contestant
• antagonist
• match
• attacker
• nemesis
• combatant
• assailant
• archenemy
• invader
• equal
• curse
• bane
• bête noire

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• partner
• ally
• accomplice
• champion
• proponent
• supporter
• advocate
• exponent
• confederate
• sympathizer

2

as in enemy

one that is hostile toward another

the senator has many political opponents who would love to ruin his career

Synonyms & Similar Words

• enemy
• foe
• hostile
• adversary
• antagonist
• attacker
• rival
• archenemy
• competitor
• combatant
• assailant
• invader
• archfoe
• nemesis
• bête noire
• ill-wisher
• bane
• emulator

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• friend
• partner
• fellow
• buddy
• pal
• colleague
• mate
• ally
• chum
• comrade
• musketeer
• compadre
• hearty
• accomplice
• crony
• collaborator
• disciple
• amigo
• adherent
• supporter
• abettor
• friendly
• hail-fellow
• follower
• hail-fellow-well-met
• benefactor
• exponent
• sympathizer
• hobnobber
• backer
• confederate
• well-wisher

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of opponent

By comparison, Ehudin shot a 2-over 72, but Quackenbush said his opponent refused to go away. — Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 31 Aug. 2026

During Putin’s first 20 years in power, his political opponents were rarely charged with political crimes. — Andrei Soldatov, Foreign Affairs, 31 Aug. 2026

At a Monday press conference with former primary opponent Mallory McMorrow, el Sayed steered clear of Israel and Piker. — Ramsey Touchberry, The Washington Examiner, 31 Aug. 2026

Trump has been an outspoken opponent of any role for the federal government helping with childcare, one of the biggest costs for families. — Brian Mann, NPR, 31 Aug. 2026