adversary
AD-ver-sehr-ee
/ˈædvərˌsɛri/
One's opponent in a contest, conflict, or dispute.
It carries a more formal and serious tone than 'enemy' or 'opponent,' often implying a worthy or long-standing rival.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'ad' (against) and 'vertere' (to turn). An adversary is literally someone who has 'turned against' you. This root also gives us 'reverse' and 'universe.'
Word relationships
- opponent: Opponent is neutral and common; adversary is more formal and suggests a deeper conflict.
- rival: A rival is someone competing for the same goal over time, while an adversary is simply the person you are fighting right now.
- ally: An ally is someone on your side, whereas an adversary is against you.
- protagonist: In a story, the protagonist is the lead character, while the adversary (antagonist) works against them.
Commonly confused with
- enemy: An enemy implies hatred or a desire to harm; an adversary can be respected and the conflict can be purely professional or athletic.
Word family
- adversarial (adjective): Involving or characterized by conflict or opposition.
Collocations
- worthy adversary
- formidable adversary
- political adversary
Example sentences
- "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." A biblical reference. (1 Peter 5:8)
- "He respected his adversary, knowing that the match would require every ounce of his skill." Describing a sports rivalry.
Memory hook
An 'adversary' is someone who creates 'adverse' (difficult) conditions for you. Adversary = Adverse person.
When not to use
Don't use it for a casual friend you are playing a game with; it sounds too intense.
Fun facts
- In legal systems, the 'adversarial system' is one where two advocates represent their parties' case before an impartial person or group.
Explore more words
antagonist, adversity, adjudicate, dispute, confrontation, enmity
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