How to Say "adversary" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “adversary” is “oponente” — use 'oponente' when referring to someone you are competing against, especially in a game, sport, or debate.
oponente
oh-poh-NEN-tehopoˈnente
Examples
Mi oponente en el ajedrez es muy inteligente.
My opponent in chess is very smart.
Los dos oponentes se saludaron antes del partido.
The two opponents greeted each other before the match.
Debemos respetar a nuestro oponente político.
We must respect our political opponent.
One word for both genders
This word stays the same whether you are talking about a man or a woman. To show the gender, just change the word 'the' or 'a' before it: 'el oponente' (the male opponent) or 'la oponente' (the female opponent).
Don't say 'oponenta'
Mistake: “La oponenta.”
Correction: La oponente.
adversario
ad-ber-SA-ryoaðβeɾˈsaɾjo
Examples
El equipo saludó al adversario al final del partido.
The team greeted the opponent at the end of the game.
En política, es importante respetar al adversario.
In politics, it is important to respect your rival.
No debes subestimar a un adversario tan inteligente.
You shouldn't underestimate such an intelligent adversary.
Describing the 'Other Side'
This word acts as a naming word (noun) for a person or group you are competing against. It usually takes 'el' or 'un' because it is masculine.
Using 'de' for connection
To say whose opponent they are, use the word 'de'. For example: 'el adversario de Juan' (Juan's opponent).
Opponent vs. Enemy
Mistake: “Using 'enemigo' for a soccer match.”
Correction: Use 'adversario' or 'rival' for games. 'Enemigo' is much stronger and implies hatred or war.
opositor
oh-poh-see-tohropoˈsitoɾ
Examples
Es un fuerte opositor a la nueva ley de transporte.
He is a strong opponent of the new transport law.
Los opositores al régimen fueron arrestados.
The opponents of the regime were arrested.
El principal opositor del alcalde criticó su discurso.
The mayor's main opponent criticized his speech.
Using with 'a' and 'de'
You can be an 'opositor a' (opponent to a plan) or 'opositor de' (opponent of a person/group).
Opositor vs. Oponente
Mistake: “El opositor en el partido de tenis fue muy difícil.”
Correction: El oponente/rival en el partido de tenis fue muy difícil.
General Rival vs. Political Opposition
Related Translations
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