1. Military forces or troops deployed to oppose or resist an enemy force; opposing military units.
Usage: Usually plural; used in military and strategic contexts.
2. Forces or actions taken to counteract, neutralize, or oppose another force or influence.
Usage: General usage; can apply to military, political, or social contexts.

Examples

• The general deployed counterforces to defend against the advancing enemy.
• Diplomatic counterforces were mobilized to address the international crisis.
• The government organized counterforces to suppress the uprising.
• Strategic counterforces were positioned along the border.
• Economic counterforces helped stabilize the market during the downturn.
• Military planners assessed the strength of potential counterforces.
• The alliance strengthened its counterforces in response to regional threats.