What does the phrasal verb “run against” mean?

What are the definitions of “run against”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Oppose, make difficulties.

  Opinion is RUNNING AGAINST his policies and he has very little support.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “run against”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb run against is to oppose or face difficulties. It is often used when talking about someone or something facing opposition or challenges, especially in politics or public opinion.

What are the different verb forms of “run against”?

Root Verb	run against
Third Person Singular Present	runs against
Present Participle	running against
Simple Past	ran against
Past Participle	run against

Example

The new law runs against the public's wishes.

Example

Her proposal runs against the company's values.

Example

He is running against strong opposition in the election.

Example

The candidate ran against a popular incumbent.

Example

The policy has run against public opinion for years.

What kind of phrasal verb is “run against”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“run against” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

The current trend runs against traditional values.

Example

His ideas run against the majority's opinion.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“run against” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

The current trend runs against traditional values.

Example

His ideas run against the majority's opinion.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “run against”?

Run against the wind

To face difficulties or opposition, often metaphorically.

Example

He always seems to be running against the wind in his career.

Run against the clock

To be in a hurry or have limited time to complete a task.

Example

We were running against the clock to finish the project on time.

Run against the grain

To go against the norm or what is generally accepted.

Example

Her unconventional ideas often run against the grain of traditional thinking.

Good things to know

Does “run against” have an informal or formal tone?

Run against is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings such as news articles, political discussions, and academic writing.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “run against”?

Synonyms

• oppose
• contradict
• counter
• resist
• defy
• go against
• clash with
• conflict with

Antonyms

• support
• follow
• agree with
• conform to
• comply with
• abide by
• adhere to