oppose
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /əˈpoʊz/
KK: /əˈpoʊz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To act against something or someone; to disagree or resist.
Example
Many people oppose the new law because they believe it is unfair.
Tense Forms
Past: opposed
Past Participle: opposed
Conversation
I heard some people oppose the new park project in our neighborhood.
Really? What are their reasons for that?
They think it will bring too much traffic and noise.
That makes sense, but I hope they reconsider.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
resist
defy
contest
Antonyms
support
agree
assist
transitive verb
Definition
To disagree with or fight against something or someone.
Example
Many people oppose the new law because they believe it is unfair.
Tense Forms
Past: opposed
Past Participle: opposed
Conversation
I really oppose the new rules at school.
Yeah, they seem pretty unfair to us students.
I just don’t understand why they would oppose our suggestions.
Root Explanation
Oppose → It is formed from "ob-" (meaning against) and "ponere" (meaning to place). The word "oppose" means to place oneself against something or to resist it.
Memory Tip
Think of placing yourself 'against' ('ob-') something — that's why oppose means to resist or stand against.
Visually Confused Words
reoppose
appose
unopposed
preoppose
pose