Definition

Describing a situation or relationship that involves opposition or conflict between two parties.

Example

The negotiation process became adversarial when both sides refused to compromise.

Conversation

I noticed that the discussion in the meeting felt quite adversarial yesterday.

Yeah, it seemed like everyone was just trying to prove their point.

It makes it hard to come to a conclusion when there's such an adversarial vibe.

Absolutely! We need to find a way to collaborate better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Adversarial → It is formed from "adversus" (meaning turned against) and the suffix "-ial" (meaning relating to). The word describes something that is related to opposition or conflict, as in a situation where parties are turned against each other.

Memory Tip

Think of 'turned against' ('adversus') to remember that 'adversarial' relates to conflict or opposition.

Visually Confused Words