adversary

A person, group, or force that fights against you or tries to harm you.

• They faced a powerful adversary.
• The two armies studied their adversaries carefully.
• He refused to surrender to his old adversary.

Similar words: enemy, opponent, foe

Opposites: ally

Common phrases: powerful adversary, face an adversary, defeat an adversary

Someone you compete or argue against.

• She was a worthy adversary at chess.
• His political adversaries challenged every proposal.
• Despite their friendship, they became adversaries in the final match.

Similar words: opponent, rival, competitor

Opposites: ally

Common phrases: worthy adversary, political adversary, adversary in debate

Involving opposing sides that argue against each other, especially in a court.

• The court uses an adversary system.
• Both parties presented evidence in adversary proceedings.
• An adversary process allows each side to challenge the other’s claims.

Similar words: adversarial

Common phrases: adversary system, adversary proceedings, adversary process

Unfriendly and opposed to each other.

• The countries have an adversary relationship.
• Their adversary attitude made cooperation difficult.
• Years of distrust had created an adversary relationship between the groups.

Similar words: hostile, antagonistic, adversarial

Opposites: friendly

Common phrases: adversary relationship, adversary attitude