What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
detractor
Example
The politician's detractors accused him of being corrupt. [detractors: noun]
Example
She was a vocal detractor of the new policy. [detractor: adjective]
opponent
Example
The two candidates were opponents in the election. [opponents: noun]
Example
He was an opponent of the proposed legislation. [opponent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Opponent is more commonly used than detractor in everyday language. Opponent is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while detractor is less common and has a more specific use.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between detractor and opponent?
Both detractor and opponent can be used in formal and informal contexts, but detractor may be perceived as more informal due to its less common usage.
