1 B2 neutral
To support the opponents of someone in a dispute, argument, or conflict.
"Surprisingly, his own party members sided against him during the vote."
inseparable
side against
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To join or support the opposition against a particular person or group in a conflict or dispute.
In plain English
To choose to be on the opposite side from someone in an argument or fight.
What does "side against" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
In a personal conflict, to take an opposing position to someone close to you.
"She felt betrayed when her best friend sided against her in front of everyone."
inseparable
Usage tip
Used in contexts of arguments, debates, legal disputes, or conflicts. Less common than its antonym 'side with'. Often appears in news or political contexts.
Words that pair with "side against"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
ally colleague parent party union defendant
How to conjugate "side against"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
side against
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sides against
he/she/it
Past simple
sided against
yesterday
Past participle
sided against
have + pp
-ing form
siding against
continuous
Hear "side against" in the wild
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