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act against

B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

To do something that goes against a rule, person, or belief.

Meanings

1 B2 neutral

To do something that is contrary to a rule, law, or principle.

"The doctor warned that acting against medical advice could be dangerous."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 neutral

To take steps to oppose or harm someone's interests.

"The union accused management of acting against the workers' best interests."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Common in legal, ethical, and political discourse. Often used with objects like 'law', 'advice', 'principles', 'interests'. More formal than 'go against'.

Commonly used with

law principles advice interests wishes regulations

Forms

Base
act against
I/you/we/they
3rd person
acts against
he/she/it
Past simple
acted against
yesterday
Past participle
acted against
have + pp
-ing form
acting against
continuous

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Synonyms

go against oppose violate contravene defy work against

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