run against
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To compete with (someone) in an election.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
I don't want to run against him for the governorship.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To negatively effect (someone or something); to experience a conflict regarding (something); to run up against (something).
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “run against” mean?
To compete with (someone) in an election.
Is “run against” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.