adversary
Describes a person, group, or force that is in opposition or conflict with another; an opponent or enemy. In legal contexts, it refers to a system or proceeding where two parties represent opposing interests.
Examples
3 of 5The two brothers maintained an adversary relationship whenever they played board games.
The two brothers maintained an adversary relationship whenever they played board games.
The adversary system of justice is a core component of the legal framework in many countries.
The adversary system of justice is a core component of the legal framework in many countries.
I didn't mean to take such an adversary stance during our friendly chat about movies.
I didn't mean to take such an adversary stance during our friendly chat about movies.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'ad-versus-ary'. The word contains 'versus,' which means 'against.' An adversary is someone who is against you.
Quick Quiz
In the legal _______ system, two advocates represent their parties' positions before an impartial person or group.
Correct!
The correct answer is: adversary
Examples
The two brothers maintained an adversary relationship whenever they played board games.
everydayThe two brothers maintained an adversary relationship whenever they played board games.
The adversary system of justice is a core component of the legal framework in many countries.
formalThe adversary system of justice is a core component of the legal framework in many countries.
I didn't mean to take such an adversary stance during our friendly chat about movies.
informalI didn't mean to take such an adversary stance during our friendly chat about movies.
Political scientists often analyze the adversary dynamics between the ruling party and the opposition.
academicPolitical scientists often analyze the adversary dynamics between the ruling party and the opposition.
They adopted an adversary approach to the merger negotiations, which led to a stalemate.
businessThey adopted an adversary approach to the merger negotiations, which led to a stalemate.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
adversary system of justice
adversary system of justice
worthy adversary
worthy adversary
political adversary
political adversary
Often Confused With
Adversity refers to a state of hardship or misfortune, whereas adversary refers to an opponent or the state of being an opponent.
Usage Notes
While 'adversary' is most common as a noun, it functions as an adjective primarily in legal and political contexts (e.g., 'adversary system'). In most other contexts, 'adversarial' is the more common adjective form.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'adversary' when they mean 'adversity.' Remember: 'adversary' is a person or a type of relationship, while 'adversity' is a difficult situation.
Memory Tip
Think of 'ad-versus-ary'. The word contains 'versus,' which means 'against.' An adversary is someone who is against you.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'adversarius', meaning 'opponent or enemy,' derived from 'ad-' (to) and 'vertere' (to turn).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
The 'adversary system' is a hallmark of common law legal traditions (like in the US and UK), where two sides present their case to an impartial judge.
Quick Quiz
In the legal _______ system, two advocates represent their parties' positions before an impartial person or group.
Correct!
The correct answer is: adversary
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