OPPOSE Synonyms: 57 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'oppose' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of oppose are combat , resist , and withstand . While all these words mean "to set oneself against someone or something," oppose can apply to any conflict, from mere objection to bitter hostility or warfare. // opposed the plan

Q: When can 'combat' be used instead of 'oppose'?

Although the words combat and oppose have much in common, combat stresses the forceful or urgent countering of something. // combat disease

Q: When is 'resist' a more appropriate choice than 'oppose'?

While in some cases nearly identical to oppose , resist implies an overt recognition of a hostile or threatening force and a positive effort to counteract or repel it. // resisting temptation

Q: In what contexts can 'withstand' take the place of 'oppose'?

The words withstand and oppose can be used in similar contexts, but withstand suggests a more passive resistance. // trying to withstand peer pressure

oppose

verb

ə-ˈpōz

Definition of oppose next

as in to resist

to refuse to give in to I will continue to oppose any attempts to infringe upon our civil liberties

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to fight

to strive to reduce or eliminate we must oppose ignorance and prejudice wherever and whenever they arise

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb oppose differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of oppose are combat, resist, and withstand. While all these words mean "to set oneself against someone or something," oppose can apply to any conflict, from mere objection to bitter hostility or warfare.

opposed the plan

When can combat be used instead of oppose?

Although the words combat and oppose have much in common, combat stresses the forceful or urgent countering of something.

combat disease

When is resist a more appropriate choice than oppose?

While in some cases nearly identical to oppose, resist implies an overt recognition of a hostile or threatening force and a positive effort to counteract or repel it.

resisting temptation

In what contexts can withstand take the place of oppose?

The words withstand and oppose can be used in similar contexts, but withstand suggests a more passive resistance.

trying to withstand peer pressure

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of oppose Maybe the more relevant point is that Nelson Mandela was in jail for opposing a viciously racist apartheid regime. —

David Marchese, New York Times, 18 Jan. 2025 Real progress often involves compromise and cooperation with those who hold opposing views. —

Michael Sheldrick, Forbes, 18 Jan. 2025 Struggles defending the long ball: Kansas State ranks No. 204 in opposing team 3-point percentage (36.2%). —

Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 18 Jan. 2025 Milton Andersen, the men’s uncle, opposes any leniency for his nephews. —

Michael Dorgan, Fox News, 18 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for oppose

Recent Examples of Synonyms for oppose

Verb

This Mount Royal Avenue cultural institution resists change (its historic interior was last updated in 1982) and yet bends successfully.

— Jacques Kelly, Baltimore Sun, 18 Jan. 2025
Complete with two carry-ons and two checkable bags, each suitcase is outfitted in 100 percent ABS, hardwearing material that resists scratches and dents.

— Alyssa Brascia, Travel + Leisure, 18 Jan. 2025