对手 — meaning in English: opponent

duìshǒu · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for rival

垄断

lǒngduàn

十年

shí nián

机场

jīchǎng

粘土

niántǔ

对手

duìshǒu

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 对手 (duìshǒu) in discussions about sports, competitions, or debates to refer to a rival or opponent. For example, a basketball player may refer to their 对手 during a game to highlight the competitive nature of the match.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for 对手 is 竞争者 (jìngzhēng zhě), which means 'competitor.' However, 对手 often carries a connotation of having a more personal rivalry, while 竞争者 is more neutral and can refer to any competitor in a market or contest. Choosing 对手 highlights the relationship and dynamic between rivals.

Culture

The term 对手 (duìshǒu) literally translates to 'opposite hand,' symbolizing the idea of facing off against someone directly, much like the opposition in martial arts or strategic games. In Chinese culture, especially in traditional contexts like martial arts, the concept of an opponent is not just about rivalry but also respect and learning from each other's strengths.

FAQ

Q.How do you use 对手 in a sentence?

You can use 对手 in a sentence like this: '我们昨天的比赛对手非常强' (Wǒmen zuótiān de bǐsài duìshǒu fēicháng qiáng), which means 'Our opponent in yesterday's match was very strong.'

Q.Is 对手 used in formal writing?

Yes, 对手 can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a versatile term suitable for essays, articles, and casual conversations.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 对手?

One common mistake is confusing 对手 with 敌人 (dírén), which means 'enemy.' While 对手 can imply rivalry, it does not necessarily carry a negative connotation, unlike 敌人, which suggests hostility.

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