Go against sth Meaning, Examples & How to Use in English

What Does “Go against sth” Mean?

“Go against sth” means to oppose or act contrary to something, such as a rule, idea, or expectation.

Introduction

The phrase “go against sth” is a common phrasal verb in English. It is often used when someone acts in opposition to a rule, law, opinion, or tradition. Understanding the go against sth meaning helps learners express disagreement or describe situations where actions conflict with norms or expectations. This phrase is useful in many contexts, from everyday conversations to formal discussions about ethics, laws, or personal beliefs. Knowing how to use “go against sth” correctly can improve your communication skills and help you explain opposition clearly and naturally.

Quick Info Box

• Phrasal verb: go against something
• Type: Intransitive (usually followed by an object)
• Level: B1 (Intermediate)
• Short meaning: To oppose or act contrary to something

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Go against sth” is an inseparable phrasal verb, which means you cannot separate “go” and “against” with the object.

• Correct: She went against the rules.
• Incorrect: She went the rules against.

The typical patterns are:

• go against + noun (rule, opinion, law, advice)
• go against + pronoun (him, her, it)

How to Use “Go against sth”?

You use “go against sth” when you want to say that someone or something does not follow a rule, law, or expectation. It often highlights a conflict or disagreement. It can refer to personal decisions, legal matters, moral issues, or simple preferences.

Examples

Here are some natural examples to help you understand how to use “go against sth in a sentence”:

• It would go against company policy to share your password.
• She decided to go against her parents’ advice and study abroad.
• His behavior goes against everything we stand for.
• Going against the law can lead to serious consequences.
• The decision to cancel the event went against the wishes of the community.

Common Mistakes

Sometimes learners confuse the word order or use the phrase incorrectly. Here are some examples:

• Incorrect: He goes the rules against.
• Correct: He goes against the rules.
• Incorrect: They went against to the law.
• Correct: They went against the law.

Remember, “go against” must always stay together before the object.

Differences / Synonyms

Similar phrases include “break the rules,” “oppose,” and “disagree with.” However, “go against sth” often emphasizes action in opposition, not just opinion.

• Break the rules: Means to violate rules actively.
• Oppose: To disagree or resist something.
• Disagree with: To have a different opinion.

“Go against sth” can be used for both actions and ideas, making it more flexible.

Common Collocations

Here are common objects used with “go against” and their meanings:

• Rules: To oppose established guidelines.
• Laws: To act illegally or contrary to legal requirements.
• Advice: To ignore or refuse suggestions.
• Opinions: To disagree with someone’s viewpoint.
• Expectations: To act differently from what is expected.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Here are related phrasal verbs of go against sth:

• Go Out Of Sth
• Go Down To Sth
• Go Under Sth
• Go On Sth
• Go Down To

Real-life Dialogue

Here is a short conversation using “go against sth”:

Anna: Are you sure you want to submit that report late?

Mark: I know it goes against the company’s policy, but I needed more time.

Anna: Just be careful. Going against the rules could cause problems.

Practice

Try to choose the correct option to complete the sentence:

• She decided to _______ her parents’ advice and travel alone.
  a) go against
  b) go with
  c) go off
• The new law _______ traditional practices in the village.
  a) goes against
  b) goes with
  c) goes through

FAQs

• What does “go against sth” mean?
  It means to oppose or act contrary to something like a rule or idea.
• Can “go against” be separated?
  No, “go against” is inseparable and must stay together before the object.
• Is “go against sth” formal or informal?
  It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
• What is a synonym for “go against sth”?
  Synonyms include “oppose,” “break the rules,” and “disagree with.”
• Can “go against” be used with people?
  Yes, you can say “go against someone” to mean oppose them.