oppose
/əˈpoʊz/To actively resist or contradict someone or something, often through argument or action.
Many citizens opposed the government's decision to cut funding for public schools.
Many citizens were against the government's decision and tried to change it.
She opposed her parents' choice of college for her.
She disagreed with her parents' decision and tried to convince them otherwise.
The verb 'oppose' is often used in formal or political contexts, but it can also be used in everyday situations.
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💡Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
'Oppose' is often used in formal or political contexts, but it can also be used in everyday situations. In informal contexts, you might use synonyms like 'disagree' or 'resist.'
⚡Gold Rule
Preposition Use
'Oppose' can be followed by a direct object (e.g., 'oppose a proposal') or a prepositional phrase (e.g., 'oppose to a decision'). However, in modern usage, 'oppose' is often followed directly by the object without 'to' (e.g., 'oppose the decision').
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'opposen,' from Old French 'opposer,' from Latin 'opponere,' meaning 'to set against.'
📝Usage Notes
The verb 'oppose' is often used in formal or political contexts, but it can also be used in everyday situations. It can be followed by a direct object (e.g., 'oppose a proposal') or a prepositional phrase (e.g., 'oppose to a decision').