An opponent or enemy, especially in a contest, conflict, or argument. It refers to someone you are actively competing or fighting against.
From Latin *adversarius* meaning “opponent, rival,” from *adversus* “turned against, opposite.” The root idea is of being turned face-to-face against someone.
An ‘adversary’ is literally someone who is turned toward you—but in opposition, not friendship. The word reminds us that conflict often feels like a face-off, not just a distant disagreement.
In political and military discourse, adversaries have often been imagined and depicted as male, aligning conflict and opposition with masculinity. Women adversaries—whether in politics, law, or activism—have sometimes been described with gendered or derogatory language beyond what male adversaries receive.
Use "adversary" neutrally without assuming a male opponent; refer to specific individuals or groups without gendered insults. Avoid framing assertive women as adversarial in contexts where similar behavior by men is normalized.
["opponent","rival","counterparty"]
Women have been effective adversaries in legal cases, political struggles, and social movements, challenging unjust systems despite being stereotyped as overly emotional or hostile.
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