1.
formidable enemy; tough opponent; strong rival
A powerful adversary or competitor who is difficult to defeat. Used in contexts ranging from warfare and sports to business and everyday challenges.
強敵に立ち向かう。
To face a formidable opponent.
決勝の相手は強敵だった。
The opponent in the finals was a tough one.
新しい商品は市場で多くの強敵と競うことになる。
The new product will compete with many formidable rivals in the market.
Composed of 強 (strong) + 敵 (enemy, opponent). A versatile word used across many domains — sports, games, business, and literal conflict.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 強敵に立ち向かう: to face a formidable foe
- 強敵を倒す: to defeat a strong enemy
- 強敵が現れる: a powerful rival appears
- 手強い強敵: a tough, formidable opponent
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 敵: enemy, opponent (neutral; not necessarily strong)
- ライバル: rival (often implies mutual respect and ongoing competition)
- 好敵手: worthy rival (emphasizes being well-matched)