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.
彼は二人の候補者を対立させた。
He pitted the two candidates against each other.
To make people compete, often in a game, test, or challenge. Emphasizes rivalry.
先生は生徒たちを競わせて問題を解かせた。
The teacher pitted the students against each other to solve the problem.
To make people or groups fight, literally or figuratively. Stronger connotation of conflict.
そのゲームはプレイヤー同士を戦わせる。
The game pits players against each other.
To make enemies of; to set at odds. More formal and implies hostility.
その政策は国民を敵対させた。
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.
彼らは料理の腕を競った。
They pitted their cooking skills against each other.
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.
To test one's strength or ability against someone. Often used for physical or mental challenges.
新しいゲームで友達と力試しをした。
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.
彼はチャンピオンに挑んだ。
He pitted himself against the champion.