What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
adversaries
Example
The two teams were fierce adversaries on the football field. [adversaries: noun]
Example
The political parties were adversaries on the issue of healthcare reform. [adversaries: noun]
foe
Example
The knight battled his foe with a sword. [foe: noun]
Example
The company saw the new startup as a potential foe in the market. [foe: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adversaries is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as legal or political settings, while foe is more commonly used in literature or storytelling.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between adversaries and foe?
Adversaries is a more formal word than foe, and is appropriate for use in formal contexts such as legal or political settings. Foe is more informal and is better suited for use in casual or creative writing contexts.