What is opposing? Pronunciation and usage in English

opposing means . Learn how to pronounce and use opposing through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of opposing

opposingadjective

/əˈpəʊzɪŋ/
Definition & pronunciation of opposing

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "opposing." It can be tricky for some! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables: It's divided into three syllables: op-pos-ing

2. Sounds:

  • op: Pronounced like "ohp" – like the "o" in "open." It's a short, clear "oh" sound.
  • pos: Pronounced like "pos" – like the "pos" in "posse."
  • ing: Pronounced like "ing" – as in "singing."

3. Putting it together:

Say it slowly: "ohp-pos-ing"

4. Putting it all together smoothly:

"Op-pos-ing" – Aim for a quick flow between the syllables.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Emphasis: The main emphasis should be on the first syllable ("op").
  • Don't over-articulate: It's a relatively straightforward pronunciation. Don’t try to force any unusual sounds.

Resources to help you hear it:

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a slightly different explanation?

Usage and examples with the word opposing in English

Let's break down how to use the word "opposing" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances, so understanding those will help you use it effectively.

1. As an Adjective (Describing Opposition):

  • Meaning: This is the most common use. It describes something that is in conflict or contrast with something else. It suggests a state of resistance or disagreement.
  • Examples:
    • "They were opposing forces in the battle." (Referring to armies or factions)
    • "The company faced opposing views on the new policy." (Different opinions)
    • "He presented opposing arguments to the judge." (Arguments that contradict each other)
    • "She had an opposing opinion to mine on the matter." (A different viewpoint)

2. As a Verb (Expressing Conflict or Resistance):

  • Meaning: This means to be against or to resist something. It suggests an active stance of disagreement or challenge.
  • Examples:
    • "The protesters were opposing the government’s decision." (Actively resisting)
    • "The lawyer will oppose the defendant’s plea." (To argue against)
    • "The team is opposing the undefeated champion." (Facing the champion)
    • "The evidence opposed his claim." (Contradicted his claim)

3. More Formal/Legal Contexts:

  • Opposing Counsel: This is a very common phrase in the legal system. It refers to the lawyer representing the other side in a case. "I will be speaking with opposing counsel to discuss a settlement."
  • Opposing Parties: Similar to "opposing counsel," this refers to the parties involved in a legal dispute.

Here’s a breakdown to help you remember the difference:

Use Part of Speech Meaning Example
General Adjective In conflict or contrast "An opposing viewpoint."
Active Verb To resist or be against "The students opposed the rule."
Legal Noun (often used in phrases) Parties in a dispute or the other lawyer "Consulting opposing counsel."

Tips for Using "Opposing" Effectively:

  • Consider the context: Does it need to be an adjective describing a state, or a verb describing an action?
  • Synonyms: Think about synonyms you could use depending on the nuance you want to convey (e.g., contradictory, conflicting, opposing, resistant, antagonistic).
  • Don't overuse it: Sometimes, simpler words like "different" or "against" can be more effective.

Could you give me a sentence where you'd like me to use "opposing" so I can show you a more specific example? Or, would you like me to focus on a particular situation (e.g., legal, political, philosophical)?

Synonyms for the word opposing

Practice with vocabulary opposing

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The two political parties hold drastically ________ views on economic policy, making compromise difficult.
  2. During the debate, the candidates presented ________ arguments regarding the proposed legislation.
  3. The marketing team explored several ________ strategies before deciding on the most effective approach.
  4. Despite their initial ________ opinions, the committee eventually reached a consensus.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

Choose the best word(s) to complete each sentence. There may be more than one correct answer.

  1. The board faced two ________ proposals for the company's expansion, each with strong advocates. A) compatible B) identical C) opposing D) collaborative

  2. Scientists presented ________ theories on the origins of the universe, leading to a robust academic discussion. A) convergent B) opposing C) harmonious D) contradictory

  3. Despite their ________ backgrounds, the team members managed to find common ground and work effectively. A) similar B) opposing C) collaborative D) diverse

  4. The CEO expressed concern about the ________ market conditions, which could negatively impact quarterly earnings. A) favorable B) adverse C) beneficial D) advantageous

  5. It's crucial to consider all ________ viewpoints before making a final decision that affects everyone. A) uniform B) unanimous C) various D) identical

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

Rewrite each sentence using the word(s) in parentheses, ensuring the meaning remains the same.

  1. The two factions had completely different goals for the project. (opposing)
  2. Her stance on the issue was completely contrary to what the committee recommended. (opposition)
  3. The board members held widely different opinions on the budget allocation. (divergent)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. opposing
  2. opposing
  3. diverse
  4. conflicting

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. C) opposing
  2. B) opposing, D) contradictory
  3. B) opposing, D) diverse
  4. B) adverse
  5. C) various

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The two factions had opposing goals for the project.
  2. Her stance on the issue was in opposition to what the committee recommended.
  3. The board members held widely divergent opinions on the budget allocation.

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