Opõem

Opõem is a verb form in Portuguese. It is the third-person plural present indicative of the verb opor, which means to oppose, resist, or place against. The form is used with subjects such as eles, elas, or vocês, to indicate that a group acts to oppose something in the present moment. For example: Eles opõem resistência ao projeto.

The verb also appears in a reflexive construction, opõem-se, when the subject opposes something to itself or to a situation. For instance, Eles opõem-se à decisão, meaning they oppose the decision.

Etymology and related terms: opor derives from Latin oppōnere, meaning to place against or oppose. Related words include oposição (opposition), opositor (opponent), and opor-se in reflexive uses. The sense ranges from physical confrontation to presenting objections or dissent, depending on context.

Usage notes: Opõem is commonly used in political, legal, academic, and everyday discourse to describe objections, resistance, or counterarguments. It can be followed by a direct object (oporem resistência), or by prepositional phrases such as a, contra, or à (they oppose to/against something). The reflexive form opõem-se emphasizes that the opposing party acts in opposition to a proposal, plan, or rule.

See also: opor, oposição, opositor, opor-se.

This entry provides a concise overview of the form opõem, its meaning, and typical usage in contemporary Portuguese.