Definition

Relating to or showing disagreement or resistance to something.

Example

The oppositional behavior of the students made it difficult for the teacher to maintain order in the classroom.

Conversation

I noticed that our group project has become a bit oppositional lately.

Yeah, I felt that too; everyone seems to have different ideas.

It’s hard to stay focused when there’s so much oppositional energy.

We should probably have a meeting to clear things up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oppositional → It is formed from "opponere" (meaning to place against) and the suffix "-al" (meaning relating to). The word "oppositional" describes something that is related to being against or in opposition to something else.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'placed against' ('opponere') — that's why oppositional means relating to being against something.

Visually Confused Words