opposition research

[ op-uh-zish-uhn ree-surch ]

/ ɒp əˈzɪʃ ən ˈri sɜrtʃ /

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noun

the collection of information on the background, activities, etc., of one’s opponent or opponents in an effort to uncover damaging details that will undermine them.

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His boss, whom he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

His boss, who he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

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Also called, Informal, oppo, oppo research .

Origin of opposition research

First recorded in 1970–75

Words nearby opposition research

opposite sex, opposition, oppositional, oppositional defiant disorder, oppositionist, opposition research, oppress, oppressed, oppression, oppressive, oppressor

How to use opposition research in a sentence

Like in politics, both sides typically have these election campaigns where they hire private investigators for opposition research.
Corporate Lawyers Discuss The Accuracy of Succession and The Roy Family's Brewing Legal Battle|Andrew R. Chow|October 18, 2021|Time
Before entering academia, Pitney worked at the Republican National Committee, where he did opposition research.
Clinton and Christie: Let The Mud-Slinging Start|Eleanor Clift|January 22, 2014|DAILY BEAST
The Brain Room had, as a central function, when I was there, opposition research.
Fox’s War Against Ailes Biographer|David Freedlander|January 10, 2014|DAILY BEAST
The favored weapon of choice is the leak backed by a bit of opposition research.
Secret Campaign for Chairman of the Federal Reserve|Stuart Stevens|September 12, 2013|DAILY BEAST

When my partner and I began doing opposition research in the early nineties, it was a secretive endeavor.
Political Opposition Researcher Tells Candidates to Confess Before They’re Caught|Alan Huffman|February 18, 2012|DAILY BEAST
“It will definitely be useful for opposition research,” she said.
Romney's Health-Care Portfolio|Laura Colarusso|August 16, 2011|DAILY BEAST