What is versus? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of versus in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of versus

versuspreposition

so với

/ˈvɜːsəs//ˈvɜːrsəs/

Where does the word versus come from?

The word "versus" comes from the Latin word "versus," which is the verb "to turn" or "to turn towards." In Latin, the phrase "adversus" meant "against" or "opposite," and "versus" was used in a legal context to indicate a lawsuit or a trial. In the 16th century, the phrase "versus" became popularized as a title for a lawsuit, and it was shortened to just "Vs." or "v." in printed materials. Over time, the term "versus" expanded to include other meanings, such as a competitive match or a comparison between two things. For example, in a tennis match, one might say "Player A versus Player B," indicating a competition between the two players. In a broader sense, "versus" can also be used to indicate a contrast or a comparison between two opposing ideas or perspectives.

Vocabulary summary versus

typepreposition ((abbreviation) v.)

meaningagainst, resist, fight against

exampleRobinson versus Brown: (legal) Rosen sued Brown.

exampleArsenal versus Manchester City: (sports) the Ashton team vs the Manchester team

Example of vocabulary versusnamespace

meaning

used to show that two teams or sides are against each other

  • It is France versus Brazil in the final.
  • in the case of the State versus Ford
meaning

used to compare two different ideas, choices, etc.

  • It was the promise of better job opportunities versus the inconvenience of moving away and leaving her friends.

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