enemies - Master This Word
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enemies Word Meanings
- a person who opposes or is hostile to someone
- an adversary in a conflict
- a foe.
enemies Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
enemies Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɛnəmi/
US
/ˈɛnəmi/
enemies Word Etymology
enemy decomposes into en- (not) + emy (from latin 'inimicus' meaning 'hostile'). The term evolved from Latin through Old French into English. Imagine a soldier gazing across a battlefield, spotting their enemies, defining their identity in opposition.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip the chair edge and shift my weight to feel grounded. I move my gaze toward the person opposite me, breath even but eyes alert. A subtle push and pull of energy runs through my chest as I decide where to stand and how to respond. In that moment the idea of an enemy slips in as a felt presence that guides my words and posture.
Real Context
Enemy is a noun that names a person who opposes or is hostile to someone, especially in war or conflict. It can also refer to a rival who stands in the way of success or progress, whether in sports, politics, or personal disputes. The word carries a strong sense of threat, distance, and opposition, yet it can be used metaphorically as 'the enemy within' to describe internal obstacles or habits. In everyday conversation you might speak of 'your enemy' in a competitive context, while in formal writing you might contrast the enemy’s actions with your own strategies. The origin traces back to en- (not) + emy, influenced by Latin inimicus.
Usage Reminders
- Use 'an enemy' for one opponent; 'the enemy' for a specific foe; 'enemies' in plural. Avoid overgeneralizing small disputes as enemies. 'Enemy' conveys threat; consider softer options like rival or opponent in neutral contexts. Metaphors like 'the enemy within' describe internal obstacles. Note collocations: fight the enemy, enemy lines, enemy combatant.
Common Misconceptions
- Enemy always means a villain; it can describe any strong opposition in sports or politics.
- Enemies must be people, not groups or ideas.
- You cannot use enemy metaphorically in everyday speech.
- Fo e is a perfect substitute in all cases; foe is never archaic.
- The enemy is never internal or abstract.
Thinking Differences
English often frames enemy in strong, direct terms tied to conflict, with clear singular/plural forms and many idioms (the enemy within). Learners may overgeneralize to everyday disagreements or avoid using it due to its harsh tone.
Learning Tips
- Practice pluralization: enemy, enemies
- Differentiate enemy from foe and rival
- Use 'the enemy within' for internal obstacles
- Learn common collocations: enemy lines, enemy combatant
- Notice tone: enemy is strong; use with care
- Read/watch war or sport contexts to hear real usage
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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