Synonyms for

Opponent

Verb / ʌˈpəʊnʌnt / Another word for opponent — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A person who competes against another in a contest, game, or argument.

Synonyms & similar words

opposite opposing opposer adversary agonist resister opposition antagonist adversary rival competitor challenger contender foe enemy antagonist combatant opposer opposite counterpart contradictor dissident disputant oppositionist rivalist adversative hostile contrary

Synonyms by register

Formal

adversary contestant rival competitor

Informal

foe enemy challenger opposition

Literary

antagonist nemesis

Antonyms

ally friend partner supporter confederate associate helper

Common collocations

  • fierce opponent
  • political opponent
  • worthy opponent
  • main opponent
  • opponents in battle
  • face an opponent
  • defeat an opponent
  • against an opponent

Word family

noun opponent
adjective opponential

Usage note

Opponent typically refers to someone or something that is in direct competition or conflict with another. It can be used in both competitive and adversarial contexts.

Example sentences

  1. My opponent in the race was very fast.
  2. The team's opponent was from a different state.
  3. The politician's opponent criticized his policies.
  4. The chess player's opponent made a smart move.
  5. Her opponent in the debate was well-prepared.

Quotes

  • The ultimate victory in competition is derived from the inner satisfaction of knowing that you have done your best and that you have gotten the most out of what you had to give. - Howard Cosell
  • The opponent within one's own head is more formidable than the one on the other side of the net. - Tim Gallwey
  • The ultimate end of all revolutionary social change is to establish the sanctity of human life, the dignity of man, the right of every human being to liberty and well-being. - Emma Goldman

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words