Opposition

Definition

The term "opposition" refers to resistance or disagreement expressed against something, such as a policy, idea, or action. It can also describe a group of people or entities opposing an authority, or a contrasting position in various contexts such as politics, sports, or astronomy.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɑː.pəˈzɪʃ.ən/
• Respelling: AH-puh-ZISH-uhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɒp.əˈzɪʃ.ən/
• Respelling: OP-uh-ZISH-uhn

Etymology

The word "opposition" originates from the Latin "oppositio," meaning "a placing against" or "contrasting." It is derived from "opponere" (to set against), which combines "ob-" (against) and "ponere" (to place). The term entered the English language in the late 14th century.

Derivatives

• Oppositional (adjective)
• Oppose (verb)
• Opposable (adjective)
• Oppositionist (noun)
• Counteropposition (noun)

Synonyms

• Resistance
• Conflict
• Disagreement

Antonyms

• Support
• Agreement
• Alliance

Usage

The term "opposition" is commonly used in contexts such as politics ("The opposition party criticized the new policy"), debates ("There was strong opposition to the proposal"), or physical positions ("The planets are in opposition").

Related Terms

• Opponent: Someone who resists or opposes.
• Resistance: The act of fighting against or resisting something.
• Dissent: The expression of disagreement.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Resistance or dissent expressed in action or argument: Refers to active disagreement or conflict.
  • Example: "There was significant opposition to the new law."
• The action of opposing or standing in contrast: Describes a position or stance contrary to another.
  • Example: "The two teams faced strong opposition in the finals."
• A political party or group opposing the ruling authority: Refers to entities in organized resistance, particularly in a legislative context.
  • Example: "The opposition party proposed an alternative plan."
• The apparent position of celestial bodies in direct alignment: Used in astronomy to describe when two objects, such as planets, are on opposite sides of the sky.
  • Example: "The planet Mars is in opposition to the sun."