Translation guide
To set someone or something in opposition or competition with another, often in a conflict or contest.
To cause two people, groups, or things to compete or fight against each other.
General term for making two parties oppose each other. Can be used for conflicts, debates, or competition.
He pitted the two candidates against each other.
To make people compete, often in a game, test, or challenge. Emphasizes rivalry.
To make people or groups fight, literally or figuratively. Stronger connotation of conflict.
The game pits players against each other.
To make enemies of; to set at odds. More formal and implies hostility.
The policy pitted the citizens against each other.
To challenge someone to see who is better, often in a personal or competitive context.
To compete in skill; literally 'compete with one's arms'. Common for friendly or professional rivalry.
Do not translate 'pit against' literally as '穴に対して' or similar. It is an idiomatic phrasal verb. Use the causative forms or competitive phrases above.
The teacher pitted the students against each other to solve the problem.
They pitted their cooking skills against each other.
To test one's strength or ability against someone. Often used for physical or mental challenges.
I pitted myself against my friend in the new game.
To challenge or take on an opponent. Can be used when you pit yourself against someone stronger.
He pitted himself against the champion.