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."
inseparable
gang up
B1 informal inseparable intransitive
To join together as a group, usually in opposition to someone.
In plain English
When several people join together to act against one person or thing.
What does "gang up" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
A gang forms and rises up together.
Actually means
When several people join together to act against one person or thing.
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "gang up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
bully enemies rivals opposition kids colleagues
How to conjugate "gang up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "gang up" in the wild
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Other ways to say "gang up"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
conspire join forces against mob team up against unite against
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