1 B2 neutral
to hit or move into something while running or moving
"The dog ran against the gate and barked loudly."
inseparable
run against
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
to hit something, or to come into conflict with a rule, limit, or opposition
In plain English
to hit something or to meet a problem or rule that stops you
What does "run against" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic formal
to come into conflict with a rule, limit, or opposing force
"Their plan ran against local safety regulations."
inseparable
Usage tip
Literal collision sense is less common than 'run into'. Figurative use appears in legal, practical, and political contexts.
Words that pair with "run against"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
wall law rules resistance opposition deadline
How to conjugate "run against"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
run against
I/you/we/they
3rd person
runs against
he/she/it
Past simple
ran against
yesterday
Past participle
run against
have + pp
-ing form
running against
continuous
Hear "run against" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "run against" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "run against"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.