against
The word “against” is a common preposition in English. Use this word when talking about opposition or dislike, when describing the placement of an object right next to another object, and when showing contrasts.
- They are against the war in Iran. (opposition)
- The man is standing against the wall. (placement next to)
- When the color blue is placed against white, it has a pleasing effect. (contrast)
a. against = in opposition
A person who feels very strongly about a particular person or issue is against it, him, her, them, etc.
- Maria is against the use of leaf blowers because they are so noisy.
- Jeet is very against bullying. Why are people so mean?
- What are you against?
- Do you have anything against people with tattoos?
- Vanessa doesn’t know if she’s for or against the city’s plans for a new fire station near her home. (The preposition “for” is the opposite of “against” in this example.)
- Judy thinks her boss is plotting against her. She thinks she’ll lose her job.
- Ren thinks the teacher has something against him, but it’s probably just his imagination.
a. against = in opposition
b. against rules and lawas
When a thing is leaning or touching another thing, the preposition “against” may be used.
- You can’t do that. It’s against the law.
- Smoking in public buildings is against the law.
- Roy was fired because he did something that was against the rules.
b. against rules and laws
- It’s against the rules to put your bicycle here.
- It’s against the law to hunt ouf of season.
c. against = next to; force
When a thing is leaning or touching another thing, the preposition “against” may be used.
- The desk is right up against the wall.
- The police officer told the suspect to stand against the car.
- There is some lumber leaning against the fence.
- Push against the door to open it.
- I’m storing some lumber against the side of my house.
c. against = next to; force
- They’re leaning against the gate.
- The waves are crashing against the rocks.
c. Use "against" for contrasts
It can be helpful and useful to make or create comparisons in order to understand the nature of something.
- That tall building really stands out against those other, smaller buildings.
c. Use "against" for contrasts
- We took a nice little shortcut through a field and some woods to get to the house.
- He’s thinking about cutting this class tomorrow.