noun
axis of conflict; point of contention; focus of confrontation
Refers to the central line or issue around which opposing sides are divided, often used in political or social analysis.
選挙の対立軸がはっきりしない。
The axis of conflict in the election is unclear.
この問題が両党の対立軸となっている。
This issue has become the focus of confrontation between the two parties.
対立 is the general state of opposition; 対立軸 adds the notion of a central axis or framework.
Compound of 対立 (opposition) and 軸 (axis), literally 'axis of opposition'.