反対

はんたい

oppose, opposition, resistance

JLPT N4

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"反対" (はんたい) means "opposition" or "resistance" and is commonly used to express disagreement or opposing views. It can function as a noun, na-adjective, or in set phrases.

Common Contexts

It is often used in everyday conversation when expressing disagreement with plans, opinions, or proposals. It also appears in formal contexts like protests or debates.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 反対する (はんたいする): to oppose or be against something.
  • 反対意見 (はんたいいけん): opposing opinion.
  • 反対方向 (はんたいほうこう): opposite direction.

Nuances

Using 反対 shows clear disagreement but can be softened by adding polite expressions. It is more formal than casual phrases like "いやだ" (I don't like it).

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse 反対 with 却下 (rejection) or 拒否 (refusal). 反対 focuses on opposition or disagreement, not necessarily refusal to accept.

Example Sentences

わたしはそのけいかくにはんたいです。

I am opposed to that plan.

かれはいけんがはんたいなので、はなしあいがむずかしい。

He has the opposite opinion, so discussions are difficult.

あたらしいほうりつにはんたいするデモがおこなわれた。

A demonstration opposing the new law was held.