/ əˈpəʊz; NAmE əˈpoʊz/ verb
1.
to disagree strongly with sb's plan, policy, etc. and try to change it or prevent it from succeeding :
[ vn ]
This party would bitterly oppose the re-introduction of the death penalty.
He threw all those that opposed him into prison.
[ v -ing ]
I would oppose changing the law.
[also vn -ing ]
—compare propose
2.
[ vn ] to compete with sb in a contest :
He intends to oppose the prime minister in the leadership election.
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : from Old French opposer , from Latin opponere (from ob- against + ponere place), but influenced by Latin oppositus set or placed against and Old French poser to place.