oppose

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb oppose differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of oppose are combat, resist, and withstand. While all these words mean "to set oneself against someone or something," oppose can apply to any conflict, from mere objection to bitter hostility or warfare.

opposed the plan

When can combat be used instead of oppose?

Although the words combat and oppose have much in common, combat stresses the forceful or urgent countering of something.

combat disease

When is resist a more appropriate choice than oppose?

While in some cases nearly identical to oppose, resist implies an overt recognition of a hostile or threatening force and a positive effort to counteract or repel it.

resisting temptation

In what contexts can withstand take the place of oppose?

The words withstand and oppose can be used in similar contexts, but withstand suggests a more passive resistance.

trying to withstand peer pressure

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of oppose Those opposed fear the damage the measure could do to public schools and disadvantaged students. Lexi Lonas Cochran, The Hill, 16 May 2025 In these ways, incumbents’ acts of retribution toward people and organizations that oppose their agenda reinforce loyalty among their allies. Erica Frantz, The Conversation, 16 May 2025 The Motion Picture Association adamantly opposed that idea, and supported the right of other countries to offer film incentives. Gene Maddaus, Variety, 5 May 2025 The House narrowly approved a spending blueprint that aims to find $1.5 trillion in spending cuts before Trump released his proposal, despite the defections of two Republicans who joined Democrats in opposing the plan. Bart Jansen, USA Today, 3 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for oppose
Recent Examples of Synonyms for oppose
Verb
  • The six others are reportedly facing charges of disorderly conduct, and one of them is also charged with resisting arrest, per My Central Jersey.
    Toria Sheffield, People.com, 18 May 2025
  • In total, 42 people were arrested on charges including animal fighting and resisting arrest without violence.
    Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 17 May 2025
Verb
  • Moving to Italy was a big jump and then moving here was another big jump: from Serie B to a big club that fights in European competition.
    Greg O'Keeffe, New York Times, 21 May 2025
  • The current plan would lift the SALT cap from $10,000 to $30,000, but a handful of blue-state Republicans have been fighting to raise the cap higher.
    Joey Garrison, USA Today, 21 May 2025
Verb
  • Adding sensible ball-carrying would really help City combat the physical nature of the Premier League.
    Sam Lee, New York Times, 15 May 2025
  • These searches are rare, highly regulated, and have been used in identifying and combating serious crimes, including terrorism, smuggling, human trafficking, and visa fraud.
    Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 15 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Oppose.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/oppose. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on oppose

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