Here we have a series of questions about opposition. They vary in many ways but are still aligned to the topic and make for a great advanced discussion for English learners. Everyone faces opposition in life, sometimes in a casual leisure activity or something more serious. It is definitely something interesting to talk about.
Note that this site always tries to avoid anything political or religious in nature, but this topic can lead down that road. Use your discretion and only use the questions that are appropriate for your country, class, or situation. I think it is usually best to avoid speaking about politics too much, and in many countries, not at all!
For English language learners, the most difficult terms in this speaking activity include – opponent, argument, competitive, personality trait, deal with, arch-rival, rivalry, react, and supporters.
The conversation questions about opposition are –
1 – What are 5 things that you associate with the word opposition?
2 – What is a sport that you would love to compete in professionally, and why?
3 – Do you know anyone who takes sports or games far too seriously?
4 – Who is your favorite person to compete against? Why are they a good opponent?
5 – In what ways can opposition be helpful to a person? Can you give an example?
6 – When was the last time you had an argument? With whom did you argue and why?
7 – Are you a very competitive person? What things do you like to compete in?
8 – Is there a person who often disagrees with you? Why do you think they do it?
9 – What kinds of personality traits can help people overcome opposition in life?
10- Do you have any enemies? Who are they, and why do you have a problem?
11- Is there a person that you fear as an opponent in one of your favorite activities?
12- Are there any laws in your country that you are completely opposed to? Why so?
13- How do you usually react if people disagree with an idea or thought that you have?
14- Have you ever ended a friendship with a person because you had opposing ideas?
15- In what ways do creatures in the animal kingdom deal with opposition and survive?
16- Does your favorite sports team have an arch-rival? Why is there a rivalry?
17- How is opposition good for politics and government? What would happen without it?
18- What advice would you give a younger person to help them deal with opposition?
19- Do you ever have to compete against others at school or at work? In what ways?
20- In what ways are companies competing against each other good for society?
21- Do you react well when you are beaten at something? What’s a good way to react?
22- Why do you think that cats and dogs are often referred to as complete opposites?
23- Is there a person that you love competing with? Who is it and what do you do?
24- What kinds of things are opposing you in your life right now? What do you plan to do?
25- Do you get along well with opposition sports team supporters and players?
