OPPO'SE, verb transitive s as z. [Latin oppono, opposui. The change of n into s is unusual. Two different verbs may be used, as in Latin fero, tuli. See Pose.]

1. To set; against; to put in opposition, with a view to counterbalance or countervail, and thus to hinder defeat, destroy or prevent effect; as, to oppose one argument to another.

I may without presumption oppose my single opinion to his.

2. To act against; to resist, either by physical means, by arguments or other means. The army opposed the progress of the enemy, but without success. Several members of the house strenuously opposed the bill, but it passed.

3. To check; to resist effectually. The army was not able to oppose the progress of the enemy.

4. To place in front; to set opposite.

5. To act against, as a competitor.