noun
opponent, enemy
B1
Gegner means 'opponent' or 'enemy' (also 'rival'). It's a masculine noun: der Gegner. Singular genitive des Gegners (adds -s); plural die Gegner (unchanged in form), dative plural den Gegnern. No irregular plural ending; common in contexts from sports opponents to adversaries in conflict.
Examples
Der Trainer erklärte, dass das Team den Gegner unterschätzte, obwohl der Gegner körperlich stärker war.
The coach explained that the team underestimated the opponent, although the opponent was physically stronger.
Die beiden Mannschaften waren starke Gegner.
The two teams were strong opponents.
Bei der Debatte hatte er kaum Gegner.
He hardly had any opponents in the debate.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture two people facing off with a label 'Gegner' above the one on the other side.
Sounds a bit like 'gainer' — imagine an opponent trying to gain an advantage.
der — imagine a male challenger (der) to remember the masculine gender.
Notes
Can be used for sports opponents, political adversaries, or enemies in general. Plural is the same as singular in form (die Gegner).