opponent
noun B2
Plain meaning
someone who competes or argues against another person
Exam-register meaning
In academic or exam writing, this is used to discuss someone who competes or argues against another person in a more precise way.
In context
naturalThe article discussed opponent during the meeting.
examThe passage suggests that political opponent can shape long-term policy or social outcomes.
Common collocations
political opponentstrong opponentdefeat an opponent
Watch out
Do not use a weak verb before this word. Learn the whole word partnership, e.g., “political opponent”.