Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

worthy-opponent

noun
/ˈwɜrði əˈpoʊnənt/
Definition
A worthy opponent is a competitor or adversary who is deserving of respect and recognition due to their skills, capabilities, or qualities in a particular field or context.
Examples
  • She considered her rival to be a worthy opponent during the championship match.
  • In the debate club, he always saw his classmates as worthy opponents that pushed him to improve.
  • Despite losing, he acknowledged his opponent as a worthy adversary.
Meaning
The term is often used in contexts like sports, debates, or competitions to indicate that the opponent is strong and admirable, making the challenge more significant.
Synonyms
  • respectable challenger
  • formidable adversary
  • credible rival
  • valiant competitor