敵

• Reading: てき
• Romaji: teki
• Kanji breakdown: 敵 (teki/kataki) — enemy, rival, opponent
• Pronunciation: /te.ki/

Meaning

Enemy; rival; opponent. Someone who opposes or competes against you.

A noun used for enemies in both literal (warfare, conflict) and figurative (competition, sports) contexts. Key expressions: 敵に回す (teki ni mawasu, to make an enemy of), 敵味方 (teki-mikata, friend and foe). In casual speech, also used admiringly: あいつは手強い敵だ (aitsu wa tegowai teki da, he's a tough rival). Common in manga, games, and sports commentary.

Examples

1. この試合の敵はとても強いチームだ。 The opponent in this match is a very strong team.
2. 彼女を敵に回したくないから気をつけている。 I'm being careful because I don't want to make an enemy of her.
3. 昔の敵が今は親友になっている。 A former enemy has now become a close friend.

Usage Guide

Context: conflict, sports, games

Tone: serious

Origin & History

The kanji 敵 combines 啇 (suitable/match) and 攵 (strike), suggesting someone who is a match for you in combat — a worthy opponent.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal