1.
worthy rival; good opponent; well-matched competitor
A rival or competitor whose skill level closely matches one's own, making the competition both challenging and stimulating. Implies mutual respect between competitors.
Usage
好敵手 has a positive connotation. It implies that the rivalry brings out the best in both parties. The ライバル (rival) loanword is more common in casual speech, while 好敵手 is more literary.
Common collocations
- 好敵手と競う (to compete with a worthy rival)
- 生涯の好敵手 (a lifelong rival)
- 好敵手に恵まれる (to be blessed with a good rival)
Etymology
好 (good, favorable) + 敵手 (opponent). Literally "a good opponent" — someone whose opposition is welcome because it drives improvement.