A2preposition 1K

Against

UK /["/əˈɡenst//əˈɡeɪnst/"]/ US /["/əˈɡenst//əˈɡeɪnst/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

opposing or disagreeing with somebody/something

Listen to definition

In simple words: In opposition to something.

Examples

• He stood against the wall and waited for his friend.
• The evidence was presented against the defendant in court.
• She voted against the proposal during the meeting.
• They are campaigning against climate change.
• You should not go against your principles.

Usage notes

Use 'against' when discussing opposition or resistance. It is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but can sound aggressive if used in sensitive discussions.

Grammar pattern

against + object

Memory hint

Imagine two teams playing a game, each 'against' the other.

Collocations

• against the law
• against all odds
• fight against
• stand against

Synonyms

• opposite
• against
• contrary
• anti
• counter

Antonyms

• for
• in favor of

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'versus', which has a different nuance.
• Incorrect use of 'against' with non-physical opposition.
• Missing preposition when used in phrases.