1.
great enemy; formidable foe; archenemy
A powerful enemy or opponent. Very often used figuratively for anything that poses a serious threat or obstacle to a goal or condition.
油断は大敵だ。
Carelessness is your worst enemy.
乾燥は肌の大敵だ。
Dryness is the enemy of the skin.
ダイエット中の人にとって、甘いものは大敵だ。
For someone on a diet, sweets are the great enemy.
Often used figuratively: not a literal foe, but anything that seriously threatens a goal or condition.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 油断は大敵: carelessness is your worst enemy (a common saying)
- 肌の大敵: the enemy of healthy skin
- 健康の大敵: a threat to one's health
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 強敵: tough opponent — a strong rival, usually in a contest or fight
- 天敵: natural enemy — a predator in nature, or figuratively someone one can never beat