I oppose

USAGE SUMMARY

"I oppose" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that you disagree with something. Example: I oppose the proposal to build a new shopping mall in this area.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I oppose the death penalty.

The Economist

"I oppose it," he said.

The New York Times

And so I oppose it.

The New Yorker

I oppose modern slavery like I oppose ancient slavery.

Independent

I oppose liberals.

The New York Times - Magazine

I oppose blanket amnesty.

The New York Times

I oppose their politicization of my religion.

The New York Times

Fallaci: I oppose, all the same.

The New Yorker

I oppose any tax increase.

The New York Times

Of course I oppose terrorism.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is something I oppose".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I oppose", clearly state the object or idea you are opposing to avoid ambiguity. For example, "I oppose the new zoning regulations".

Common error

Avoid using "I oppose" in extremely informal settings. While generally acceptable, consider using less direct phrases like "I disagree" or "I'm not in favor of that" for casual conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I oppose" primarily functions as a declarative statement expressing disagreement or resistance to a particular idea, action, or proposal. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

2%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I oppose" is a straightforward way to express disagreement or resistance. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and very commonly used, especially in news and media contexts. When using "I oppose", it's essential to clearly state what you are opposing to avoid ambiguity. While appropriate for professional and news-related settings, consider the context and audience, opting for milder alternatives like "I disagree" or "I'm not in favor of that" in more informal situations. Remember that the correct phrasing is "I oppose", without the addition of 'to'. Overall, "I oppose" is a powerful tool for clearly stating your position, but its formality should be considered.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I am against it

Uses a different preposition to express the same negative stance.

I disagree with that

Expresses disagreement rather than direct opposition.

I am not in favor of it

A more formal way to express disagreement.

I object to this

Formal and direct expression of disapproval.

I am resistant to it

Highlights the resistance to an idea or proposal.

I disapprove of it

Expresses moral or principled disapproval.

I am in opposition to it

Highlights the stance of being in opposition.

I reject that

Indicates a complete refusal to accept something.

I am not for it

An informal way of expressing disagreement.

I am averse to it

Expresses a strong dislike or aversion.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "I oppose"?

You can use alternatives like "I am against it", "I disagree with that", or "I object to this" depending on the context.

How formal is the phrase "I oppose"?

The phrase "I oppose" is generally considered neutral to formal. It's appropriate for professional and news-related contexts but might be too direct for very informal conversations. Consider your audience and adjust your language accordingly.

Is it better to say "I oppose to" or "I oppose"?

The correct phrasing is "I oppose" without the preposition "to". Saying "I oppose to" is grammatically incorrect.

What is the difference between "I oppose" and "I disagree"?

"I oppose" suggests a stronger level of resistance or action against something. "I disagree" simply indicates a difference in opinion, without necessarily implying active opposition.