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

"He's brought a defensive system from Scotland where they've two men tackling high, trying to hold people up in the air," added Borthwick said of his opposite number.

From BBC

That is where another similarity between Smith and opposite number Carey can be drawn.

From BBC

A quarter of an hour into Isgro's debut against Bath, Smith cut blind, chipped across field and the winger claimed the ball over the head of his opposite number for a try.

From BBC

Cooper flew in on Thursday from Northern Ireland with her German opposite number.

From BBC

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

From BBC

Related Words

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