What are the definitions of “run up against”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Encounter problems, often unexpected.
They RAN UP AGAINST a lot of opposition to the construction.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “run up against”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb run up against is to encounter problems or difficulties, often unexpectedly. It is used when someone faces challenges or obstacles in a situation.
What are the different verb forms of “run up against”?
| Root Verb | run up against |
| Third Person Singular Present | runs up against |
| Present Participle | running up against |
| Simple Past | ran up against |
| Past Participle | run up against |
Example
We ran up against some issues while planning the event.
Example
She runs up against problems with her computer all the time.
Example
They are running up against resistance from the community.
Example
He ran up against a language barrier when he moved to a new country.
Example
The project has run up against several delays.
What kind of phrasal verb is “run up against”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“run up against” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
We ran up against some unexpected challenges.
Example
The team ran up against a strong opponent.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“run up against” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
We ran up against some unexpected challenges.
Example
The team ran up against a strong opponent.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “run up against”?
Run up against a deadline
To face a time limit or due date, often with the risk of not completing a task on time.
Example
We ran up against a tight deadline for submitting the report.
Run up against a wall
To encounter a significant obstacle or barrier that is difficult to overcome.
Example
The negotiations ran up against a wall when both parties refused to compromise.
Run up against resistance
To face opposition or disagreement from others.
Example
The new policy ran up against resistance from the employees.
Good things to know
Does “run up against” have an informal or formal tone?
Run up against is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “run up against”?
Synonyms
- encounter
- face
- confront
- experience
- meet
- come across
- deal with
- tackle
Antonyms
- avoid
- dodge
- evade
- bypass
- circumvent
- sidestep
- skirt
