Browse all

rally behind

B1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

When many people decide together to support someone or something important.

Literal meaning: Troops or supporters gathering and moving in formation behind a leader.

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic neutral

To give collective support to a leader, candidate, or cause, especially in a difficult moment.

"Members of the party rallied behind their leader despite calls for his resignation."

"Democrats rallied behind Biden after his Super Tuesday victories."

— CNN, March 2020
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 idiomatic neutral

To unite in collective support of a shared goal or team.

"The fans rallied behind their team after an embarrassing first-round defeat."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Common in political, sports, and social movement contexts. The 'behind' particle suggests a positional metaphor of standing behind a leader. Often used in journalism. More directional in feel than 'rally around.'

Commonly used with

candidate leader cause team party flag

Forms

Base
rally behind
I/you/we/they
3rd person
rallies behind
he/she/it
Past simple
rallied behind
yesterday
Past participle
rallied behind
have + pp
-ing form
rallying behind
continuous

Understand "rally behind" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "rally behind" on Looplines