against

a-gainst · preposition

imported

Definitions

preposition

  1. 1.

    In opposition to.

  2. 2.

    In contact with; supported by.

  3. 3.

    In contrast or comparison to.

  4. 4.

    As protection or defense from.

  5. 5.

    In the opposite direction to.

  6. 6.

    Not to the advantage of.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    against the clock — With limited time; in a hurry.
  • •
    against the grain — Contrary to one's nature or instincts.
  • •
    against all odds — Despite very unfavorable circumstances.
  • •
    up against — Facing a difficult situation.
  • •
    have something against — Have a reason to dislike.
  • •
    as against — In comparison with; contrasted with.
  • •
    over against — In contrast to.

Related words

Antonyms: for, in favor of, with
See also: contrary, for, oppose, versus
Synonyms: contrary to, opposed to, versus

Etymology

From Old English ongegn + -es (adverbial genitive) + -t, from Proto-Germanic gagina ("against, toward").