gang up
B1 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
When several people join together to act against one person or thing.
Literal meaning: A gang forms and rises up together.
Meanings
1 B1
idiomatic
informal
To form a group in order to oppose or attack someone together.
"The older boys used to gang up and chase the younger kids home from school."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1
idiomatic
informal
To combine efforts with others, often in a way that seems unfair to an outsider.
"It felt like all the other departments ganged up to block our proposal."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Almost always carries a negative connotation — the grouping is perceived as unfair or intimidating. Commonly used to describe bullying or coordinated opposition. Often followed by 'on' when specifying a target.
Commonly used with
bully enemies rivals opposition kids colleagues
Forms
Base
gang up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
gangs up
he/she/it
Past simple
ganged up
yesterday
Past participle
ganged up
have + pp
-ing form
ganging up
continuous
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Synonyms
unite against team up against join forces against mob conspire
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