opposition research

American  

[op-uh-zish-uhn ree-surch] / ɒp əˈzɪʃ ən ˈri sɜrtʃ /

noun

1. 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.

---

Etymology

Origin of opposition research

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

The proposal, largely written by Mr. Dingell, called for an unprecedented national lobbying push supported by grass-roots fund-raising, a media operation and opposition research.

From New York Times • Jul. 30, 2023

Green claims information from her service record was passed to an opposition research firm that offered it to the press.

From Washington Times • Oct. 27, 2022

Bouchard claimed that the efforts of an unnamed British media reporter and a “political opposition research company” were why he wanted to disclose the news.

From Seattle Times • May 21, 2021

It was "laid out in the style of a campaign's opposition research document," according to a New York Times reporter.

From Salon • Jul. 24, 2020

Rather than produce opposition research, it plans to fund ad campaigns as well as studies by academics to make the case for the tech industry, according to sources, including its articles of incorporation in Virginia.

From Washington Post • May 12, 2020