opponent crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your go-to source for solving challenging crossword puzzles! If you've landed here looking for solutions to the clue "opponent crossword clue," you're in the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "opponent crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FOE: A bitter enemy or adversary.
5 Letters
RIVAL: Someone competing for the same objective or against the same opponent.
7 Letters
NEMESIS: A long-standing rival; an arch-enemy.
ADVERSY: An archaic or poetic term for an adversary.
9 Letters
ADVERSARY: One's opponent in a contest, conflict, or dispute.
More About "opponent crossword clue"
The term "opponent" is a common and versatile clue in crosswords, often appearing in various contexts from sports and games to legal battles and historical conflicts. Understanding the nuances of different synonyms for "opponent" can be key to unlocking the puzzle. For instance, while a "rival" might be someone you compete against in a friendly game, a "foe" or "adversary" often implies a more serious, antagonistic relationship.
Crossword constructors love using "opponent" because it allows for a wide range of answer lengths, from short and punchy words like FOE to longer, more descriptive terms such as ADVERSARY or ANTAGONIST. Always consider the puzzle's theme or other clues that might hint at the specific type of opponent being referenced.
This flexibility means you might encounter this clue in almost any puzzle, from daily quick crosswords to elaborate themed ones. By having a good grasp of its synonyms and their subtle differences, you'll be well-equipped to tackle "opponent" clues no matter how they're presented.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Context: Is the puzzle themed around sports, war, or perhaps a legal setting? The context can often narrow down whether the "opponent" is a 'rival', 'foe', or 'plaintiff'.
- Check Letter Count First: Once you have a few potential synonyms in mind, immediately check if their letter count matches the spaces provided. This is the quickest way to eliminate possibilities.
- Look at Intersecting Words: Use already solved letters from intersecting words as critical hints. Even one correct letter can confirm or eliminate a potential answer for "opponent".
- Think of Archaic or Obscure Synonyms: Crosswords sometimes use less common synonyms to add challenge. Don't be afraid to think beyond the most obvious terms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I narrow down answers for 'opponent' clues?
When faced with an 'opponent' clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a sports puzzle? A historical one? Look for synonyms like 'rival,' 'foe,' 'adversary,' 'nemesis,' and then check letter count and surrounding letters to confirm.
Why are there so many answers for 'opponent'?
The word 'opponent' is a versatile term with many synonyms, each carrying slightly different nuances (e.g., a 'rival' in competition versus a 'foe' in battle). Crossword constructors use this to their advantage, providing clues that can fit various word lengths and contexts.
What if the clue is 'opponent, briefly' or similar?
Shortened clues often point to abbreviations or shorter synonyms. For 'opponent, briefly', you might think of 'OPP' or a very short word like 'FOE'. Always consider the specific phrasing and any hints about abbreviations.