Lawan

Lawan is a word in Indonesian and Malay that functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to an opponent, adversary, or rival in a contest, debate, sport, or conflict. As a verb, lawan means to oppose, resist, or fight against something or someone.

In everyday language, lawan appears in phrases such as lawan arus, meaning to go against the current, and in legal or formal settings to designate the opposing party, often phrased as pihak lawan in court or negotiations. In sports and competition, the term identifies the other team or competitor.

The word is primarily used in Indonesian and Malay and is common across the related Malayic languages. Its usage sits between neutral opposition and hostility depending on context; it can describe a straightforward opponent without implying personal enmity, unlike words such as musuh (enemy) which may carry stronger connotations.

See also: pihak lawan, lawan arus.