1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To encounter a difficult problem, barrier, or form of resistance during an effort or process.
"The researchers came up against several ethical obstacles when designing their study."
inseparable
come up against
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To encounter an obstacle, problem, or opponent that must be dealt with.
In plain English
To meet a problem or a difficult person that is blocking your way.
What does "come up against" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
To face or compete against a strong opponent or adversary.
"In the final, they came up against a team that had not lost all season."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To move upward and make physical contact with something.
Actually means
To meet a problem or a difficult person that is blocking your way.
Usage tip
Typically used to describe encountering resistance or an unexpected obstacle. Common in both everyday and professional contexts. Usually implies the obstacle is significant and not easily bypassed.
Words that pair with "come up against"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
opposition resistance problem barrier difficulty wall
How to conjugate "come up against"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
come up against
I/you/we/they
3rd person
comes up against
he/she/it
Past simple
came up against
yesterday
Past participle
come up against
have + pp
-ing form
coming up against
continuous
Hear "come up against" in the wild
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