run up against
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To suddenly find a big problem or person blocking what you're trying to do
Literal meaning: To run and collide with something — fairly transparent as a metaphor for hitting an obstacle
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To encounter a significant obstacle, opposition, or difficulty that is hard to overcome
"The reform project ran up against fierce resistance from senior management."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Common in business, political, and everyday contexts. The obstacle can be a person, organisation, rule, or abstract problem. Often implies the obstacle is difficult or impossible to overcome.
Commonly used with
opposition resistance problem obstacle difficulty wall
Forms
Base
run up against
I/you/we/they
3rd person
runs up against
he/she/it
Past simple
ran up against
yesterday
Past participle
run up against
have + pp
-ing form
running up against
continuous
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