Top 44 Slang For Go Against – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to expressing defiance or resistance, language can play a powerful role. In this article, we explore the diverse and dynamic world of slang for going against the norm. Whether you’re a rebel at heart or just curious about the creative ways people express dissent, we’ve got you covered with a curated list that will surely pique your interest. So, buckle up and get ready to delve into the world of words that challenge the status quo!

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1. Buck the trend

To “buck the trend” means to go against the current or prevailing pattern or trend. It refers to actively resisting or challenging the norm or popular opinion.

For example, “While most people are investing in stocks, he decided to buck the trend and invest in real estate.”
In a discussion about fashion, someone might say, “She always bucks the trend and wears unique outfits.”
A business article might mention, “This company’s innovative approach is bucking the trend in the industry.”

2. Swim against the current

To “swim against the current” means to go against the flow or direction that most people are following. It implies going against popular opinion or societal norms.

For instance, “He chose to swim against the current and pursue a career in the arts instead of a traditional job.”
In a conversation about politics, someone might say, “It’s important to have individuals who are willing to swim against the current and challenge the status quo.”
A motivational speaker might encourage their audience by saying, “Don’t be afraid to swim against the current and pursue your own path.”

3. Rebel

To “rebel” means to resist or defy authority or societal norms. It implies actively going against established rules or expectations.

For example, “She has always been a rebel and refuses to conform to societal expectations.”
In a discussion about social movements, someone might say, “The youth are rebelling against the system and demanding change.”
A rebellious teenager might proudly declare, “I’m a rebel and I don’t care what anyone thinks.”

4. Defy

To “defy” means to challenge or refuse to obey something or someone. It involves actively resisting or going against expectations or rules.

For instance, “He defied his parents’ wishes and pursued a career in music.”
In a discussion about civil rights, someone might say, “Protesters are defying unjust laws to fight for equality.”
A news article might report, “The citizens defied the government’s orders and continued to protest.”

5. Oppose

To “oppose” means to stand against or resist something or someone. It involves actively expressing disagreement or disapproval.

For example, “She opposes the new policy because she believes it will have negative consequences.”
In a political debate, someone might say, “I oppose this candidate’s views on healthcare.”
A community leader might encourage residents to oppose a harmful development project by saying, “We must unite and oppose this project for the sake of our community.”

6. Contradict

To express an opposing opinion or statement that goes against what has been said or established. “Contradict” is often used to challenge or dispute someone’s argument or belief.

For instance, during a debate, one participant might say, “I have to contradict your point because the evidence suggests otherwise.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might argue, “I can’t help but contradict the idea that higher taxes lead to economic growth.”
A person might respond to a false statement with, “I have to contradict you there, that’s simply not true.”

7. Challenge

To question or doubt the validity or accuracy of something, often with the intention of provoking a deeper understanding or discussion. “Challenge” can also mean to confront or oppose someone or something.

For example, a student might challenge their professor’s theory by saying, “I respectfully challenge your hypothesis because I believe there is another explanation.”
During a brainstorming session, a team member might challenge an idea by asking, “Have we considered the potential drawbacks and challenges?”
A person might challenge an oppressive system by protesting or advocating for change.

8. Resist

To actively refuse to comply with or accept something, often in an effort to protect one’s rights, beliefs, or values. “Resist” can also mean to withstand or endure something.

For instance, a group of citizens might resist a new law they believe is unjust by organizing protests or demonstrations.
When faced with temptation, a person might say, “I need to resist the urge to indulge in unhealthy habits.”
In a discussion about societal norms, someone might argue, “We should resist the pressure to conform and embrace our individuality.”

9. Disobey

To intentionally refuse to follow instructions, rules, or authority, often as an act of rebellion or protest. “Disobey” implies a deliberate choice to go against what is expected or demanded.

For example, a child might disobey their parents by staying out past curfew.
In a military context, a soldier who disobeys orders may face disciplinary action.
A person might choose to disobey unjust laws as an act of civil disobedience.

10. Counter

To act or speak in opposition to something, often by offering an alternative viewpoint or argument. “Counter” can also mean to respond or react to something.

For instance, during a debate, one participant might counter an argument by presenting evidence that contradicts it.
In a negotiation, someone might counter an offer with a different proposal.
A person might counter a negative comment with a positive affirmation.

11. Deflect

To deflect means to avoid or redirect something, especially criticism or blame. It can also refer to physically changing the direction of something.

For example, in a heated argument, someone might deflect criticism by saying, “Well, what about when you did this?”
In a game of tennis, a player might deflect a ball by hitting it at an angle.
A politician might deflect a difficult question by changing the topic.

12. Thwart

To thwart means to prevent or hinder the success of something or someone. It implies actively working against a goal or plan.

For instance, a detective might thwart a criminal’s plan to rob a bank.
A parent might thwart their child’s attempt to stay up late by enforcing a bedtime.
A team might thwart their opponent’s scoring attempts by playing strong defense.

13. Buck

To buck means to resist or oppose something, often in a rebellious or defiant manner. It can also refer to suddenly jerking or jumping.

For example, a teenager might buck against their parents’ rules by staying out past curfew.
A horse might buck to try and throw off its rider.
A person might buck the trend by going against popular opinion or fashion.

14. Stand up to

To stand up to means to confront or resist someone or something. It implies showing bravery or determination in the face of opposition.

For instance, a person might stand up to a bully by speaking out against their actions.
A country might stand up to an aggressor by defending its borders.
A person might stand up to their fears by facing them head-on.

15. Object

To object means to disagree or protest against something, often in a formal or official manner. It implies expressing dissatisfaction or disapproval.

For example, a person might object to a proposed law during a public hearing.
A student might object to a teacher’s grading policy by challenging it.
A person might object to a decision by filing a formal complaint.

16. Oppugn

To challenge or question someone’s beliefs or ideas. “Oppugn” is a formal term that is not commonly used in everyday conversation.

For example, in a debate, one might say, “I oppugn the notion that money brings happiness.”
A philosopher might use the term to discuss intellectual arguments, saying, “To oppugn is to engage in critical thinking and questioning.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might argue, “We must oppugn the policies that go against our values.”

17. Combat

To actively fight against or oppose something. “Combat” often implies a physical or metaphorical battle.

For instance, in a war, soldiers combat the enemy forces.
In a political context, one might say, “We must combat corruption in our government.”
A person discussing personal struggles might say, “I am constantly combating my own self-doubt.”

18. Defend

To protect or support someone or something against criticism, attack, or opposition. “Defend” implies taking a stance in favor of someone or something.

For example, a lawyer defends their client in court.
In a debate, someone might say, “I defend the idea that education should be accessible to all.”
A person might defend their favorite sports team, saying, “I will always defend my team, no matter what.”

19. Withstand

To withstand means to resist or endure something difficult or challenging. It implies facing opposition or adversity with strength.

For instance, a building designed to withstand earthquakes is built to resist the shaking.
In a personal context, one might say, “I have faced many challenges in life, but I have always been able to withstand them.”
A person discussing a difficult situation might say, “We must find the strength to withstand this crisis.”

20. Confront

To confront means to face or address a difficult situation or person directly. It implies taking a proactive approach to deal with a problem.

For example, if someone is spreading rumors about you, you might confront them and ask for an explanation.
In a workplace conflict, one might say, “We need to confront the issue head-on and find a resolution.”
A person discussing personal growth might say, “I had to confront my fears in order to overcome them.”

21. Cross

To go against or defy something or someone. It can also mean to oppose or challenge an idea or belief.

For example, “He decided to cross his boss’s orders and do things his own way.”
In a political debate, one might say, “I strongly cross the candidate’s stance on immigration.”
A rebellious teenager might declare, “I’m going to cross my parents’ rules and stay out past curfew.”

22. Buckle

To give in or surrender in a situation where resistance or opposition is expected. It can also mean to yield or submit under pressure.

For instance, “Under intense questioning, the suspect finally buckled and confessed.”
In a negotiation, one party might say, “We can’t buckle under their demands; we need to stand firm.”
A person facing a difficult decision might say, “I don’t want to buckle under the pressure, but I’m not sure what to do.”

23. Dispute

To challenge or question the validity or accuracy of something. It can also mean to argue or debate a point of contention.

For example, “The lawyer disputed the witness’s testimony, claiming it was unreliable.”
In a scientific community, researchers might dispute the validity of a study’s findings.
Two friends might dispute over which movie to watch, arguing their preferences.

24. Contravene

To violate or break a rule, law, or agreement. It can also mean to act in opposition to something.

For instance, “His actions contravene the terms of his contract and could result in legal consequences.”
In a discussion about ethics, one might argue, “The company’s practices contravene basic moral principles.”
A person might say, “I refuse to contravene my principles, even if it means facing consequences.”

25. Take on

To challenge or confront something or someone. It can also mean to assume responsibility or deal with a difficult situation.

For example, “She decided to take on the school bully and stand up for her classmates.”
In a business context, one might say, “I’m ready to take on the challenges of this new project.”
A person facing personal struggles might declare, “I’m determined to take on my fears and overcome them.”

26. Push back

To push back means to oppose or resist something or someone. It can refer to expressing disagreement or taking a stance against a particular idea or action.

For example, “The employees decided to push back against the new company policy.”
In a political context, someone might say, “The opposition party is pushing back against the proposed legislation.”
A person might use this phrase in a personal context, saying, “I had to push back against my parents’ expectations to pursue my own dreams.”

27. Stand against

To stand against means to take a firm position or stance against something. It implies actively opposing or resisting a particular idea, action, or person.

For instance, “Many activists stand against animal cruelty.”
In a social context, someone might say, “I stand against discrimination in all its forms.”
A person discussing their personal beliefs might state, “I stand against any form of injustice or inequality.”

28. Run counter to

To run counter to means to contradict or go against something. It suggests that an idea, action, or belief is in direct opposition or contradiction to another.

For example, “His behavior runs counter to the values he claims to uphold.”
In a professional context, someone might say, “The new strategy runs counter to our company’s mission statement.”
A person discussing societal norms might state, “His unconventional lifestyle choices run counter to traditional expectations.”

29. Kick against

To kick against means to rebel or resist something, often in a defiant or confrontational manner. It implies a strong opposition or refusal to conform.

For instance, “She decided to kick against societal expectations and pursue her own path.”
In a political context, someone might say, “The citizens kicked against the oppressive regime.”
A person discussing personal growth might state, “Sometimes you have to kick against your own fears and limitations to achieve your goals.”

30. Face off

To face off means to confront or oppose someone or something directly. It suggests a confrontation or clash between opposing forces or ideas.

For example, “The two rival gangs faced off in a heated confrontation.”
In a sports context, someone might say, “The two teams will face off in the championship match.”
A person discussing a debate might state, “The candidates will face off in a televised debate to discuss their policies.”

31. Lock horns

This phrase is often used to describe a situation where two people or groups strongly disagree and confront each other.

For example, “The two politicians locked horns during the debate over healthcare.”
In a sports context, one might say, “The two teams locked horns in a fierce competition.”
A friend might share, “My parents always lock horns when it comes to politics.”

32. Dig in one’s heels

This phrase is used to describe someone who stubbornly sticks to their stance and refuses to budge.

For instance, “Despite the criticism, she dug in her heels and defended her controversial decision.”
In a workplace scenario, one might say, “The employees dug in their heels and refused to accept the proposed changes.”
A parent might share, “My teenager always digs in their heels when it comes to doing chores.”

33. Fight back

This phrase refers to the act of standing up against someone or something that is trying to harm or overpower you.

For example, “She fought back against the bullies and refused to be a victim.”
In a political context, one might say, “The citizens fought back against the oppressive regime.”
A survivor might share, “I fought back and escaped the dangerous situation.”

34. Take a stand

This phrase means to make a definitive statement or decision about a particular issue or situation.

For instance, “It’s time to take a stand against discrimination and fight for equality.”
In a social activism context, one might say, “The protesters took a stand against police brutality.”
A friend might share, “I finally took a stand and ended a toxic relationship.”

35. Go head to head

This phrase is often used to describe a situation where two individuals or groups directly confront each other in a competitive or confrontational manner.

For example, “The two boxers went head to head in the ring.”
In a business context, one might say, “The two companies went head to head in a battle for market dominance.”
A sibling might share, “My brother and I always go head to head when playing video games.”

36. Clash

To have a disagreement or conflict with someone or something. “Clash” can also refer to a physical confrontation or a clash of ideas.

For instance, two rival gangs might clash in a street fight.
In a political debate, opposing candidates might clash over their views on a particular issue.
A person might say, “I clashed with my boss over the new project proposal.”

37. Buck the system

To resist or defy established rules, norms, or authority. This phrase implies a desire to challenge or disrupt the status quo.

For example, a person might say, “I’m tired of playing by the rules. It’s time to buck the system.”
In a discussion about social change, someone might argue, “Sometimes you have to buck the system to bring about real progress.”
A rebellious teenager might declare, “I’m going to buck the system and do things my own way.”

38. Challenge the status quo

To question or dispute the existing state of affairs or accepted beliefs. This phrase suggests a desire to bring about change or improve upon the current situation.

For instance, a group of activists might challenge the status quo by advocating for equal rights.
In a business meeting, someone might propose, “We need to challenge the status quo and find new ways to innovate.”
A person might say, “I’m not afraid to challenge the status quo and push for progress.”

39. Defy authority

To openly refuse to obey or comply with those in positions of power or authority. This phrase implies a rebellious or defiant attitude towards established rules or orders.

For example, a protestor might defy authority by refusing to disperse when ordered to.
In a discussion about civil disobedience, someone might argue, “Sometimes it’s necessary to defy authority to fight for justice.”
A person might say, “I’m not afraid to defy authority if it means standing up for what I believe in.”

40. Contest

To engage in a competition or dispute. “Contest” can also refer to an event or activity in which individuals or teams compete against each other.

For instance, athletes might contest in a track and field competition.
In a debate, two speakers might contest each other’s arguments.
A person might say, “I’m going to contest the election and run for office.”

41. Refute

To prove something to be false or incorrect. It involves presenting evidence or arguments that contradict or challenge a statement or belief.

For example, a scientist might refute a previously accepted theory by conducting new experiments and gathering data that contradicts it.
In a debate, one participant might say, “I refute your claim with these counterexamples.”
A journalist might write an article to refute false information that has been circulating.

42. Clash with

To have a conflict or disagreement with someone or something. It implies a strong difference of opinion or a confrontation.

For instance, two politicians might clash with each other during a debate over a controversial issue.
In a discussion about different parenting styles, one person might say, “I clash with my parents on how to discipline my children.”
A student might clash with their teacher over a grading decision.

43. Cross swords

To enter into a disagreement or argument with someone. It often implies a heated or intense exchange of opposing views or actions.

For example, two lawyers might cross swords in a courtroom during a trial.
In a political debate, one candidate might cross swords with another over their policy proposals.
A group of activists might cross swords with a government agency over environmental regulations.

44. Put up a fight

To resist or oppose someone or something, often in a determined or spirited manner. It implies a willingness to defend oneself or one’s beliefs.

For instance, a person might put up a fight against unjust treatment or discrimination.
In a sports competition, an underdog team might put up a fight against a stronger opponent.
A person facing a difficult situation might say, “I’m not giving up without putting up a fight.”