preposition
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(physical) A close but separated relationship.In a contrary direction to.If you swim against the current, you must work harder.
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Close to.The kennel was put against the back wall.
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In front of; before a background.The giant was silhouetted against the door.
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In physical contact with.The puppy rested its head against a paw.
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In physical opposition to, or in collision with.The rain pounds against the window.
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(social) A contrasting or competitive relationship.In contrast and/or comparison with.He stands out against his local classmates.
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In competition with, versus.The Tigers will play against the Bears this weekend.
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In opposition to.are you against freedom of choice?; I'd bet against his succeeding
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In exchange for.-
As counterbalance to.-
As a charge on.-
As protection from.He turned the umbrella against the wind.
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In anticipation of; in preparation for (a particular time, event etc.).conjunction
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1749, Henry Fielding, Tom Jones, Folio Society 1973, p. 6:He now gave Mrs Deborah positive orders to take the child to her own bed, and to call up a maid-servant to provide it pap, and other things, against it waked.
adverb
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In opposition to something.Are you for the new ring road? No, I'm against.
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(gambling) Having a specified likelihood of not winning or happening.The second favourite won the race at odds of two to one against.
Extra examples
We must continue the struggle for justice and against injustice.
She voted against the proposal.
He spoke against appeasing the enemy.
Some people were for the proposal but others were against it.
There's a law against doing that.
Two runners racing against each other
Touching the ball with your hands is against the rules.
In a direct line against them stood the three witches.
The gate has been shut against her.
I met him against the pond.
Three of their ships lay against the walls.
Till I break my ship against rocks.
The sharp sleet is pattering against the window-panes.
I was jostled against him in the crowd.
Lean against my shoulder.
