opposed

American  

[uh-pohzd] / əˈpoʊzd /

adjective

1. hostile or resistant (usually followed byto ).

   At a town hall meeting about the proposed desalination plant, most speakers were opposed, citing high costs and the effect on marine life.

   Some educators are opposed to bringing new media tools into classes, viewing them as a potential distraction for students.

2. having contrary effects; operating at cross-purposes.

   How do we interpret these seemingly opposed trends—away from organized religion and toward the formation of strong spiritual beliefs?

3. set against or contrasted with something else or with each other; viewed as contrary or competing.

   The opposed images on the book’s title page represent the two very different understandings of “home” featured in the narrative.

4. situated, existing, or growing in opposite directions.

   There are two diametrically opposed arrows on the signpost, and we have no idea which one to follow.

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verb

1. the simple past tense and past participle of oppose.

idioms

1. as opposed to, in contrast to; rather than.

   The new boss is intuitive as opposed to analytical, and conflict-shy as opposed to aggressive.

Other Word Forms

• preopposed adjective
• quasi-opposed adjective
• unopposed adjective

Etymology

Origin of opposed

First recorded in 1450–1500; oppose ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

In response, the state attorney general’s office released a statement saying that it opposed the judge’s decision and “we are reviewing our options.”

From Los Angeles Times

Keenan said research has shown meetings that have an independent facilitator, have better outcomes for survivors as opposed to informal meetings.

From BBC

In one case, the camp of democracies will emerge strengthened, morally rearmed, reconciled with the idea that force can sometimes be placed in the service of law rather than opposed to it.

From The Wall Street Journal

Discovery chairman Samuel Di Piazza Jr. says on CNBC’s Squawk Box there is “nothing further from the truth” than claims that Warner is opposed to any agreement with Paramount, no matter the terms.

From The Wall Street Journal

Many of those opposed to Maduro's government asked to remain anonymous, fearing for their safety.

From BBC

Related Words

• anti
• antithetical
• averse
• disputed
• hostile
• inimical
• opposing