Definitions and Examples of opponent, adversary, enemy
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
A person or group that is against another in a competition, conflict, or debate.
Example
The boxer's opponent was much taller and stronger than him.
A person or group that opposes or fights against another.
Example
The superhero's adversary was a powerful villain who wanted to take over the world.
A person or group that is actively hostile or opposed to another.
Example
The soldiers had to fight against the enemy to protect their country.
Key Differences: opponent vs adversary vs enemy
- 1Opponent is a general term that describes someone who is against another in a competition, conflict, or debate.
- 2Adversary is a more specific term that implies an active fight or opposition against another person or group.
- 3Enemy is a relational term that describes someone who is actively hostile or opposed to another person or group.
Effective Usage of opponent, adversary, enemy
- 1Sports: Use opponent to refer to the other team or player in a game or match.
- 2Politics: Use adversary to describe a political opponent or rival.
- 3Military: Use enemy to describe the opposing forces in a war or conflict.
Remember this!
The antonyms of confederate are opponent, adversary, and enemy. These words describe someone who is against or in conflict with another person or group. Use opponent for general competition, adversary for active opposition, and enemy for hostile or opposing forces in a war or conflict.