What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
defy
Example
The protesters defied the curfew and continued their march. [defied: verb]
Example
She defied her parents' wishes and pursued a career in the arts. [defied: past tense]
Example
The athlete's performance defies explanation. [defies: present tense]
oppose
Example
The opposition party opposes the government's new policy. [opposes: verb]
Example
He opposed the idea of raising taxes on small businesses. [opposed: past tense]
Example
I strongly oppose the use of animals for testing cosmetics. [oppose: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Oppose is more commonly used than defy in everyday language, and it covers a wider range of contexts. Defy is less common and may be considered more formal or literary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between defy and oppose?
While both defy and oppose can be used in formal or informal contexts, defy may be considered more formal or literary due to its less frequent usage.
