What is against? Pronunciation and usage in English

against means . Learn how to pronounce and use against through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of against

againstpreposition

/əˈɡɛnst//əˈɡeɪnst/
Definition & pronunciation of against

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "against" in English. Here's a breakdown and a few tips:

The Standard Pronunciation (Most Common):

  • ɡænˈɪst

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • ɡæn - This is the most challenging part. It sounds like "gone" but with a more forceful "g" sound. Think of it as a short, sharp "g."
  • ˈɪst - This part is easier. It rhymes with "mist" or "list". The "i" is pronounced as in "bit," and the "st" is pronounced as in "stop."

Putting it together: "ɡænˈɪst" – you can say it slowly at first: "gon-ist"

Tips for Getting it Right:

  • Focus on the Initial "G": Really emphasize that "g" sound – it shouldn’t be a soft “g” like in “good.” Think of it like a short, abrupt “g.”
  • Stress the Second Syllable: The second syllable (ˈɪst) is stressed. This is what makes it sound correct. You want the emphasis to be on "ist."
  • Listen to Examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:

Common Mistakes:

  • Saying "ag-'gainst": Many people mistakenly pronounce it as "ag-" followed by "gainst." Don't do this!
  • Soft "G": Avoid a gentle "g" sound. It needs to be more direct.

Do you want me to:

  • Break down any specific part of the pronunciation further?
  • Give you more examples of how it's used in a sentence?

Usage and examples with the word against in English

Let's break down how to use the word "against" in English. It's a very versatile word with several different meanings and ways of being used. Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Preposition (Showing Opposition or Resistance):

This is the most common usage. "Against" indicates opposition, resistance, or conflict.

  • Against someone: I argued against his proposal. (Meaning: I disagreed with it and presented reasons why it wouldn't work.) She stood against the corrupt politician. (Meaning: She resisted his actions and policies.)
  • Against something: They campaigned against poverty. (Meaning: They worked to reduce or eliminate poverty.) He fought against injustice. (Meaning: He opposed and resisted unfair treatment.) We need to fight against climate change. (Meaning: We need to work to stop or mitigate the effects of climate change.)
  • Against an idea/belief: I’m against the death penalty. (Meaning: I oppose the death penalty.) She was against the idea of moving. (Meaning: She didn’t want to move.)

2. As Part of Phrasal Verbs:

"Against" frequently appears in phrasal verbs, changing their meaning. Here are some common examples:

  • Come against: He came against unexpected difficulties. (Meaning: He encountered difficulties.)
  • Go against: His actions went against the rules. (Meaning: They violated the rules.) The evidence goes against his story. (Meaning: The evidence contradicts his story.)
  • Stand against: (Also works as a preposition – see point 1) They stood against the rising tide of extremism. (Meaning: They resisted the extremism.)
  • Fight against: (Again, also a preposition – see point 1) We must fight against ignorance. (Meaning: We must combat ignorance.)
  • Be against: I’m against you speaking to your brother like that. (Meaning: I disapprove of you speaking to your brother like that.)

3. As an Adverb (Opposing a Statement or Action):

Less common, but useful: “Against” can be used to directly contradict something.

  • Against all odds, they won the game. (Meaning: Despite the difficulty of the situation, they won.)
  • Against my better judgment, I agreed to help him. (Meaning: Even though I knew it was a bad idea, I agreed.)

4. As Part of a Clause (Expressing the Reason for Something):

  • He was punished against his will. (Meaning: He was punished unwillingly.) The decision was made against the advice of experts. (Meaning: The decision was made despite the experts' advice)

Key Differences to Note:

  • "Against" vs. "For": "Against" indicates opposition or resistance, while "for" indicates support or approval.
  • "Against" vs. "In favor of": “Against” shows disagreement, while “in favor of” shows support.

Examples to Illustrate Combined Usage:

  • “He argued against the proposal and presented evidence in favor of an alternative.”
  • “She stood against the injustice and worked for equality.”

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of sentences are you trying to write? (e.g., formal essays, casual conversations, creative writing)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word against

Idioms of the word against

as against something
in contrast with something
  • They got 27 per cent of the vote as against 32 per cent at the last election.
the cards/odds are stacked against you
you are unlikely to succeed because the conditions are not good for you

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