The word “confronting” means facing or dealing with directly. Here are some synonyms and an analysis:
Encounter: This implies coming across or meeting with something, often unexpectedly. For example, “He encountered many difficulties on his journey.” Like “confronting”, it involves coming into contact with a situation or problem that needs to be addressed.
Face: This is a very common synonym. It simply means to look directly at or deal with. For instance, “She had to face her fears.” “Face” emphasizes the act of looking squarely at a challenge or obstacle, similar to “confronting”.
Oppose: This can mean to stand against or resist. When you oppose something, you are confronting it in a sense. For example, “They opposed the new law.” Opposing implies a more active form of confrontation, as you are taking a stance against something.
Contend with: This phrase means to struggle or deal with. For example, “He had to contend with a difficult boss.” It suggests a more prolonged and challenging form of confrontation, as you are grappling with a situation over a period of time.
Challenge: This can mean to question or dispute, or to present a difficulty. For example, “The new policy challenges our traditional way of thinking.” Challenging something is a form of confrontation, as you are calling it into question or pushing back against it.
In summary, these synonyms for “confronting” all involve facing or dealing with a situation, problem, or opponent in some way. They range from more passive encounters to active opposition and challenges.