opposition
UK: ˌɒpəˈzɪʃ(ə)n | US: ˌɑːpəˈzɪʃ(ə)n
n. resistance or dissent against authority, a policy, or a proposal
n. a group or party opposing another in a competition or conflict
n. the act of placing something opposite or in contrast
The word "opposition" originates from the Latin oppositio, derived from opponere (to place against). The root "oppose" combines ob- (against) + ponere (to place), reflecting the idea of setting something in resistance or contrast. The suffix "-ition" transforms the verb into a noun, denoting the state or action of opposing. Over time, it evolved in Middle English to describe both literal and figurative resistance.
The government faced strong opposition to the new tax reform.
The team’s opposition was well-prepared for the championship match.
Her speech highlighted the opposition between freedom and security.
The opposition party proposed an alternative budget plan.
In chess, controlling the center weakens your opponent’s opposition.