Synonyms for

Adversaries

Verb / ˈædvɜ:ˌseri:z / Another word for adversaries — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Adversaries are people who oppose or compete against each other.

Synonyms & similar words

opposer adversary agonist resister opponent antagonist opponents rivals enemies foes competitors antagonists challengers contenders combatants opposers nemeses oppositors adversaries contenders challengers frenemies opposers rivals nemeses competitors

Synonyms by register

Formal

opponents rivals competitors antagonists

Informal

enemies foes opposition nemeses

Literary

contraries oppugners

Antonyms

friends allies partners confederates supporters helpers comrades

Common collocations

  • political adversaries
  • military adversaries
  • business adversaries
  • formidable adversaries
  • numerous adversaries
  • personal adversaries
  • identifying adversaries

Word family

noun adversary
adjective adverse

Usage note

Adversaries are typically those who oppose or compete with one another, often in a direct or prolonged conflict. While 'enemies' can be a synonym, 'adversaries' often implies a more formal or less personal struggle.

Example sentences

  1. The cat and the dog were adversaries.
  2. The superhero fought against his adversaries to save the city.
  3. The two companies were adversaries in the marketplace.
  4. The two countries were adversaries in the war.
  5. The team's biggest adversary was their own lack of confidence.

Quotes

  • The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. -Nelson Mandela
  • The best way to predict your future is to create it. -Abraham Lincoln
  • In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years. -Abraham Lincoln

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