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.

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Etymology

Origin of opposition research

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

opposition research

The party establishment sees a different lesson: that opposition research, debate scrutiny and general-election campaigning exist for a reason.

From Barron's ● Jul. 9, 2026

“Every political professional knows that the most important type of candidate research is not opposition research — it’s research on your own candidate,” Schnur said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 7, 2026

In 2010, I co-founded the opposition research hub American Bridge 21st Century.

From Salon ● Nov. 25, 2023

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

The opposition research on Mr. DeSantis covers not only his tenure as Florida’s governor, but also his nearly six-year stint in Congress.

From Washington Times ● Apr. 4, 2023