AGAINST

In a contrary direction to.

Example: "It is hard work to swim against the current."

In physical opposition to; in collision with.

Example: "The rain pounds against the window."

In physical contact with, so as to abut or be supported by.

Example: "The kennel was put against the back wall."

Close to, alongside.

Example: "A row of trees stood against a fence."

In front of; before (a background).

Example: "The giant was silhouetted against the door."

In contrast or comparison with.

Example: "He stands out against his classmates."

In competition with, versus.

Example: "The tigers will play against the bears this weekend."

Contrary to; in conflict with.

Example: "Doing this is against my principles."

In opposition to.

Example: "Are you against freedom of choice?"

Of betting odds, denoting a worse-than-even chance.

Example: "That horse is fifty-to-one against, so it has virtually no chance of winning."

In exchange for.

Example: "The vouchers are redeemable against west end shows and theatre breaks."

As counterbalance to.

As a charge on.

Example: "Tax is levied against income from sales."

As protection from.

Example: "He turned the umbrella against the wind."

In anticipation of; in preparation for (a particular time, event etc.).

Example: "The stores are kept well stocked against a time of need."

(hollywood) to be paid now in contrast to the following amount to be paid later under specified circumstances, usually that a movie is made or has started filming.

Example: "The studio weren't sure the movie would ever get made, so they only paid $50,000 against $200,000. that way they wouldn't be out very much if filming never began."

Exposed to.