Goes Against – Definition and Part of Speech
Definition
The phrase “goes against” typically means to oppose, conflict with, or be contrary to something. It’s often used to describe a situation in which there is a clash between ideas, beliefs, rules, or actions. This can refer both literally (as in opposing forces) and metaphorically (such as when someone acts contrary to their principles).
Part of Speech
“Goes against” functions primarily as part of a verb phrase. It derives from the present tense of “to go,” paired with “against.” While it’s typically used in its base form, variations could include past forms (“went against”) or modal constructions (“is going against”).
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contradicts | Opposes directly, often in logic or argument. | “His testimony contradicts the evidence presented.” | Formal/Technical |
| Defies | Challenges authority or norms, with a rebellious connotation. | “She defies societal expectations by pursuing her dream.” | Literary/Creative |
| Opposes | Indicates resistance or disagreement without aggressive undertones. | “Many citizens oppose the new policy due to its potential impact on small businesses.” | Business/Formal |
| Conflicts with | Highlights a clash between ideas, beliefs, or interests. | “The two companies’ marketing strategies conflict with each other, causing confusion among consumers.” | Academic/Business |
| Clashes with | Similar to “conflicts with,” but can imply more overt confrontation or friction. | “Her lifestyle choices seem to clash with her family’s traditional values.” | Casual/Descriptive |
Usage Notes
- Contradicts: Best used in formal writing, debates, and technical contexts where logical opposition is being discussed.
- Defies: Ideal for creative writing and narratives that emphasize individualism or resistance against authority.
- Opposes: Commonly used in business and political contexts to express disagreement without aggressive tones.
- Conflicts with: Frequently found in academic papers and reports to describe non-personal disagreements, such as between theories or policies.
- Clashes with: Suitable for descriptive passages that aim to evoke a sense of tension or friction, particularly in casual narratives.
Common Pitfalls (Optional)
- Contradicts vs. Defies: Remember that “contradicts” is more neutral and logical, while “defies” carries emotional weight and often implies rebellion.
- Opposes vs. Conflicts with: While both suggest disagreement or opposition, “opposes” can be used in a broader range of contexts (not necessarily involving ideas), whereas “conflicts with” usually involves specific ideas or interests clashing.
Final Recap
In summary, the phrase “goes against” can be replaced by several synonyms depending on context and nuance. While all these terms relate to opposition or conflict, their suitability varies by formality level, intended emphasis, and domain (e.g., logic vs. personal rebellion). To enhance your vocabulary, practice using these synonyms in diverse sentences—be it a business proposal, an academic essay, or casual conversation—and observe the subtle differences each brings to your language.