working against

USAGE SUMMARY

"working against" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is acting in opposition or hindering progress towards a goal or desired outcome. Example: Despite our best efforts, the weather conditions were working against our outdoor event.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

was working against him.

The New Yorker

She was working against the clock.

The New York Times

The forces working against it are powerful.

The Economist

"In reality, they are working against them".

The New York Times

Saleh is still working against the revolution.

The New York Times

Now, time is working against Qaddafi.

The New York Times

Time is working against Cruz here, though.

The New York Times

But several factors are working against him.

The New York Times

Generational change is working against it.

The New York Times

Time is working against them.

The New York Times

He is working against God".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "working against", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being opposed and the nature of the opposition. Provide specific details to enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming the reader understands the full extent of what "working against" implies. Clearly specify the consequences or potential impacts of the opposition to ensure the gravity is understood.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "working against" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often serving as part of a predicate to describe an entity or force that is actively opposing or hindering something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "working against" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase that describes opposition or hindrance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it effectively communicates that something is impeding progress or negatively impacting a situation. While generally neutral in register, it can be adapted to fit both formal and informal settings. When writing, ensure you clearly specify what is being opposed and the potential consequences to enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives such as "opposing", "hindering", or "undermining" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acting in opposition to

A more formal and explicit way of stating disagreement or resistance.

going against

A more informal way of expressing disagreement or contravention.

opposing

Emphasizes direct conflict or resistance, differing from subtly undermining.

hindering

Highlights the act of delaying or obstructing progress, emphasizing the impediment aspect.

impeding

Similar to hindering, but can imply a more significant or impactful obstruction.

counteracting

Focuses on neutralizing or diminishing the effects of something, differing slightly from direct opposition.

thwarting

Indicates successfully preventing something from happening, implying a more forceful opposition.

undermining

Implies a gradual weakening or erosion of something, rather than direct confrontation.

sabotaging

Suggests deliberate destruction or obstruction, adding a layer of intentional harm.

militating against

Suggests that something has a considerable effect in preventing something from happening.

FAQs

How can I use "working against" in a sentence?

You can use "working against" to describe something that is opposing or hindering progress. For example, "The high interest rates are working against potential homebuyers".

What are some alternatives to "working against"?

You can use alternatives like "opposing", "hindering", or "undermining", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "working against" and "going against"?

"Going against" is often more informal and can imply a direct violation of rules or expectations. "Working against", on the other hand, suggests opposition that may be less direct but still impedes progress.

When is it appropriate to use "militating against" instead of "working against"?

The phrase "militating against" is more formal and suggests something has a considerable effect in preventing something from happening. Use it in contexts requiring elevated diction.