opposite number

American  

noun

1. counterpart; equivalent.

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

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opposite number British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of opposite number

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

opposite number

Arendse's yellow card for a deliberate knock-on gave England a man advantage for 10 minutes, and, at the end of the powerplay, Genge barged through opposite number Thomas du Toit from a quick tap penalty.

From BBC ● Jul. 4, 2026

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann described the match in Houston as a meeting of "David and Goliath" while his opposite number Dick Advocaat believes his charges can "steal some points".

From Barron's ● Jun. 14, 2026

"I said 'you have to get hold of George Robertson'. I think they thought that was a bit strange because George was my opposite number who spent his life making my life difficult."

From BBC ● Mar. 7, 2026

Shortly after half-time, Moody was caught heavy and high as opposite number Nili Latu jumped into a tackle.

From BBC ● Mar. 2, 2026

I shake with my opposite number, who towers over me and puts me in the shade.

From "I Am the Messenger" by Markus Zusak

Related Words

• antagonist
• attacker
• competitor
• enemy
• foe
• opponent
• rival