Set against
preposition
In a competition or confrontation with.
Today's football match is set against the two top teams.
Often appears as...
- set against the odds
- set against each other
preposition
In comparison or contrast with.
Her pale skin was set against her dark hair.
Often appears as...
- set against the backdrop
- set against the light
preposition
Used to describe the situation in which something happens.
The story is set against the backdrop of World War II.
Often appears as...
- set against the backdrop
- set against the history
Usage tips
Literary
preposition
Oppose or resist something or someone.
He is set against the idea of moving to a new city.
Often appears as...
- set against the idea
- set against the plan
preposition
In a competition or confrontation with.
Today's football match is set against the two top teams.
Often appears as...
- set against the odds
- set against each other
preposition
In comparison or contrast with.
Her pale skin was set against her dark hair.
Often appears as...
- set against the backdrop
- set against the light
preposition
Used to describe the situation in which something happens.
The story is set against the backdrop of World War II.
Often appears as...
- set against the backdrop
- set against the history
Usage tips
Literary
preposition
Oppose or resist something or someone.
He is set against the idea of moving to a new city.
Often appears as...
- set against the idea
- set against the plan
Definition 1 of 4
Pro Tip 1/2Confrontational Context
Used when describing competitive scenarios, often between rivals.
The debate is set against two seasoned politicians.
Pro Tip 2/2Conflicts and Clashes
Implies a direct opposition, like a battle or a struggle.
Their enduring friendship was set against their political differences.
Pro Tip 1/2Confrontational Context
Used when describing competitive scenarios, often between rivals.
The debate is set against two seasoned politicians.
Pro Tip 2/2Conflicts and Clashes
Implies a direct opposition, like a battle or a struggle.
Their enduring friendship was set against their political differences.
Pro Tip 1/2Confrontational Context
Used when describing competitive scenarios, often between rivals.
The debate is set against two seasoned politicians.
Pro Tip 2/2Conflicts and Clashes
Implies a direct opposition, like a battle or a struggle.
Their enduring friendship was set against their political differences.
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