Opposition is the action of resisting or disagreeing with something, someone, or a group. The idea of raising taxes met with fierce opposition from residents. A sports team was aiming to win the competition, but they were facing strong/fierce opposition from their opponents. In politics, it can refer to the major political party not in power and seeking to replace it (HM Official Opposition), or to the general state of dissent or resistance to a government policy.
Throughout history, effective opposition movements have helped shape policies and societal norms. For example, the ‘no taxation without representation’ sentiment laid the groundwork for American independence by framing government authority as contingent upon the consent of the governed. It was also central to the African American Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, and has driven countless other social justice campaigns.
The term opposition can be used to describe any kind of dissent or disagreement. The goal is to stand up against an idea or act that you think is harmful or unfair. This can be done by organizing peaceful protests, challenging legal challenges, or using grassroots activism. Whether you are opposing war, a tax increase, or an injustice, the goal is to make your voice heard and help shape change.