verb · B2

Oppose

uh-POHZ/əˈpəʊz/

To oppose is to be against a plan and try to stop it: oppose a bill, be opposed to, strongly oppose. Disagree is weaker (you may not campaign); fight is more informal or military. Opposition is the noun. In speech, be against is enough. Pattern: oppose + noun, or be opposed to. Do not write oppose against, and do not confuse oppose with suppose.

Meaning

To disagree with a plan or idea and try to prevent it.

Examples

“Residents oppose the late-night flights over the estate.”
“Most residents oppose the night flights, and they have organised a petition.”
“The party is opposed to lifting the cap, which is the adjective pattern.”

Good to know

oppose + noun; be opposed to. Everyday: be against. Weaker: disagree. Noun: opposition. Not “oppose against”. Mix-up: suppose.

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