opposite number

noun

1. counterpart; equivalent.

   New members with an interest in folk art will find their opposite numbers in the association's directory.

opposite number

noun

1. a person holding an equivalent and corresponding position on another side or situation

Word History and Origins

Origin of opposite number¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Sir Keir was joined by his opposite numbers from Canada, Australia and Iceland.

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Donald would not be drawn on whether he would have preferred his opposite number, Keegan Bradley, to have named himself as a playing captain.

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I think perhaps the most disappointed person will be Luke Donald, because the European captain I am sure would have enjoyed the fact his opposite number had to worry about playing as well as captaining.

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They were pictured chatting among other world leaders, and one snap appeared to show Putin talking directly into his opposite number's ear.

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Australia's players were also criticised for chatting with their opposite numbers on the Suncorp Stadium pitch after defeat.

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Related Words

• antagonist 
• attacker www.thesaurus.com
• competitor 
• enemy 
• foe 
• opponent 
• rival