Synonyms for

Adversary

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

Definition

An adversary is an opponent or enemy.

Synonyms & similar words

opposer agonist resister opponent antagonist opponent foe enemy rival competitor challenger antagonist opposer hostile competitor contender combatant adversative opposition counter opposite obstacle hindrance barrier obstruction

Synonyms by register

Formal

opponent antagonist competitor rival

Informal

enemy foe nemesis rival

Literary

foe antagonist arch-rival

Antonyms

friend ally confederate supporter partner associate comrade

Common collocations

  • formidable adversary
  • political adversary
  • personal adversary
  • military adversary
  • bitter adversary
  • chief adversary
  • worthy adversary

Word family

noun adversary
adjective adversarial

Usage note

Adversary typically refers to someone who opposes you in a contest, conflict, or argument, rather than someone who is necessarily evil. It is a more formal term than 'enemy'.

Example sentences

  1. The superhero had to defeat his adversary to save the city.
  2. During the debate, the two candidates acted as adversaries.
  3. The chess game was intense because both players were skilled adversaries.
  4. The lawyer was determined to win the case against her adversary.
  5. Even though they were adversaries on the field, the soccer players were friends off the field.

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