What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nemesis
Example
The detective's nemesis was a notorious criminal who always seemed to evade capture. [nemesis: noun]
Example
The team's nemesis had always been their cross-town rivals, who they had never beaten. [nemesis: noun]
Example
His love for gambling proved to be his nemesis, leading to his financial ruin. [nemesis: noun]
enemy
Example
The two countries were bitter enemies, engaged in a long-standing conflict. [enemy: noun]
Example
Lack of sleep can be your worst enemy when it comes to productivity. [enemy: noun]
Example
The virus was the enemy that the medical community was fighting against. [enemy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Enemy is a more commonly used word than nemesis in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nemesis and enemy?
Nemesis is a more formal and literary word than enemy, and is often used in more dramatic or poetic contexts.
