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

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

But not to be outdone by his opposite number, Jordan hit back for the hosts with a fine finish, dotting down in the corner despite Theo Attissogbe's last-ditch attempt to shove him into touch.

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

Mekies and his opposite number at McLaren, Andrea Stella, both agree that a hardware change is needed to go the full distance.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

I stand under the trees for a while, opposite number twenty- three.

From "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins

Related Words

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