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
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in enemy
one that is hostile toward another
the senator has many political opponents who would love to ruin his career
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of opponent
The Cubs’ 21 hits for the game were a season high for a Marlins’ opponent.
—
Steve Gorten, Miami Herald, 21 May 2025
In a lopsided Meridian library race, incumbent Jeff Kohler and newcomer Garrett Castle breezed by two opponents, Phil Reynolds and Mike Hon, who were part of a group that tried to dissolve the library district in 2023.
—Rose Evans, Idaho Statesman, 21 May 2025
This approach will disarm an opponent’s ability to double-team and pack the paint while also providing the Sky more varied scoring options.
—Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 10 May 2025
Madrid’s lack of defensive intensity means their opponents can progress upfield with little fear at times, knowing that Ancelotti’s forward line does not provide their team-mates the protection that comes with pressing from the front.
—Mark Carey, New York Times, 10 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for opponent
Steve Gorten, Miami Herald, 21 May 2025
In a lopsided Meridian library race, incumbent Jeff Kohler and newcomer Garrett Castle breezed by two opponents, Phil Reynolds and Mike Hon, who were part of a group that tried to dissolve the library district in 2023.
—Rose Evans, Idaho Statesman, 21 May 2025
This approach will disarm an opponent’s ability to double-team and pack the paint while also providing the Sky more varied scoring options.
—Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 10 May 2025
Madrid’s lack of defensive intensity means their opponents can progress upfield with little fear at times, knowing that Ancelotti’s forward line does not provide their team-mates the protection that comes with pressing from the front.
—Mark Carey, New York Times, 10 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for opponent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for opponent
Noun
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From foe to friend: the Los Angeles Kings have hired Ken Holland as their new general manager.—
Carol Schram,
Forbes.com,
14 May 2025
-
Find out if ants are friends or foes to your peonies, plus how to remove them before bringing cut peony flowers indoors.—
Anne Readel,
Better Homes & Gardens,
10 May 2025
Noun
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Coming from an impoverished family, Ding eagerly took part in public humiliation rallies against teachers, intellectuals, government officials and others labeled as enemies of Mao’s vision.—
Nectar Gan,
CNN Money,
12 May 2025
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Asking everyone else to leave, the two enemies have a private conversation that finally gets Faye out of Specter Litt Williams for good.—
Tanya Melendez,
EW.com,
9 May 2025
Noun
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If Boasberg buys Meta's argument that TikTok is actually Meta's biggest rival—and not Snap or MeWe—Meta could have an easier time shutting down the case.—
Ashley Belanger – May 16,
ArsTechnica,
16 May 2025
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That was the worry among some of the Los Angeles Kings’ faithful – and a source of joy among fans of their rivals – as Holland was introduced as the Kings’ general manager on Thursday.—
Eric Stephens,
New York Times,
16 May 2025
Noun
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Ruben Amorim trudged slowly onto the pitch, first making his way to his victorious adversary but putting into their embrace a fraction of the enthusiasm that Ange Postecoglou offered.—
Laurie Whitwell,
New York Times,
22 May 2025
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This achievement signals to our adversaries and allies alike that the U.S. is prepared to meet the challenges of today's environment from a position of strength and security.—
Isabel van Brugen,
MSNBC Newsweek,
20 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Opponent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/opponent. Accessed 25 May. 2025.
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