Entgegenzusetzen

Entgegenzusetzen is a German verb that denotes the act of opposing or countering something by placing a contrary position, argument, or measure against it. It is used when someone aims to balance, counterbalance, or challenge a proposal, statement, accusation, or plan by presenting an opposing element.

Etymology and meaning: The word combines the prefix entge­n-“toward against” with setzen (to place or set). The prefix signals opposition or counteraction, so entgegensetzen literally means to set against something. In practice it often refers to counterarguments, rebuttals, or countermeasures rather than mere disagreement.

Usage and grammar: Entgegenzusetzen is typically used with a direct object representing what is being countered. Common construction: jemand setzt dem Vorschlag oder der Behauptung etwas entgegen. For example: DerOppositionsführer setzte dem Gesetzesentwurf ein Gegenargument entgegen. Belege, Daten oder alternative Vorschläge können ebenfalls entgegensetzt werden, etwa: Man kann dem Vorwurf mit belastbaren Daten entgegensetzen. The verb can appear with different subjects and objects depending on context, including formal political, academic, or professional discourse.

Noun form and related terms: The action can be nominalized as das Entgegensetzen, for example in phrases like das Entgegensetzen von Gegenargumenten. Related verbs include entgegentreten (to confront or oppose directly), entgegnern (to retort), and entgegenwirken (to counteract). While sich entgegensetzen implies opposition, entgegnen emphasizes an immediate reply, rather than a substantive counterargument.

See also: Gegenargument, Gegenrede, Gegenmaßnahme. In use, entgegenzusetzen highlights the act of presenting a contrasting position to what has been proposed or asserted, typically aiming to alter or refine the discussion.