to demonstrate against

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to demonstrate against" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express opposition to a particular issue, policy, or event, often in the context of protests or public displays of dissent. Example: "Many citizens gathered in the city square to demonstrate against the new legislation that they believed would harm the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Hamas wouldn't allow demonstrators to demonstrate against them," Engel told me.

Vice

Inspired by the recent Tunisian demonstrations against corruption, protesters are massing in Cairo to demonstrate against government corruption and policies.

TechCrunch

Inspired by the recent Tunisian demonstrations against corruption, protesters are filling the streets of Cairo to demonstrate against government corruption and policies.

TechCrunch

"All that was demanded of one was sufficient courage to demonstrate against them".

The New York Times - Books

The Daily Mirror organised a man in a chicken costume to demonstrate against Cameron's cowardice.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The people went to the plaza to demonstrate against the contract," Fredy Villagomez told me.

The New Yorker

Ms. Moyo has been charged with inciting citizens to demonstrate against their government.

The New York Times

Organisers then called for another protest on Saturday to demonstrate against the new policy.

The Guardian

1978 March Republican prisoners launch the 'dirty protest' to demonstrate against beatings by guards.

The Guardian - Film

The reaction of people in Raqqa at first was to demonstrate against ISIS.

The New Yorker

After sunset prayers, some 3,000 Palestinian gathered to demonstrate against the arrest.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to demonstrate against", ensure the context clearly identifies the specific issue or policy being protested. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid vague statements like "to demonstrate against the government" without specifying the particular policy or action being protested. Provide clear context to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to demonstrate against" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose, indicating the reason or intention behind an action. It connects an action (like gathering or marching) with the goal of showing opposition. As Ludwig shows, it is often used to describe public displays of dissent.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

2%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to demonstrate against" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to express opposition or disagreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a standard construction. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase conveys a neutral tone and is used to describe actions taken to publicly express dissent. When writing, clarity and specificity are key to effectively using the phrase. For alternatives, consider "to protest against" or "to rally against" for slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to protest against

Direct synonym, replacing 'demonstrate' with 'protest' for a slightly less formal tone.

to rally against

Emphasizes a gathering or mobilization of people in opposition.

to take a stand against

Emphasizes a firm and principled opposition.

to march against

Highlights the act of physically moving in protest.

to speak out against

Emphasizes the act of vocalizing opposition.

to campaign against

Focuses on a sustained effort to oppose something.

to voice opposition to

Highlights the act of making opposition known.

to object to

A more general expression of disagreement or disapproval.

to oppose

A direct and concise way of expressing resistance.

to express disapproval of

A formal way of indicating disagreement.

FAQs

What's a more formal alternative to "to demonstrate against"?

For a more formal tone, consider phrases like "to express opposition to" or "to voice objection to".

How can I use "to demonstrate against" in a sentence?

You might say, "The students gathered "to demonstrate against" the proposed tuition increase." Always specify what is being protested.

What's the difference between "to protest against" and "to demonstrate against"?

While similar, "to protest against" often implies a more active and direct form of opposition, while ""to demonstrate against"" can encompass a broader range of activities, including peaceful gatherings and displays of dissent.

Are there any situations where I should avoid using "to demonstrate against"?

In highly formal or academic writing, you might opt for a more nuanced phrase like "to express disagreement with" or "to register opposition to" depending on the specific context.