against the world: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘against the world’ mean?
The idiom "against the world" means to be strongly opposed or in confrontation with everyone or everything. It conveys a sense of defiance, determination, and a refusal to conform to popular opinion or expectations.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "kick against the pricks" is an interesting and somewhat enigmatic expression with ancient Greek origins. It is derived from a line in the play "The Bacchae" by Euripides in the 5th century BC. Later translated into Latin as "calcitrare in aspidem," the idiom gained popularity in Europe during the Middle Ages.
The idiom *in your face* means to confront someone with something aggressively or boldly, often to provoke a reaction. It implies direct and unapologetic behavior, disregarding social boundaries.
The idiom "in the world" is used to emphasize something by placing it in a broader context. It implies that there is no greater or more extreme example of that thing anywhere else.
The idiom "in spite of" means to do something or have a result that goes against or contradicts a particular situation or circumstance. It implies the ability to overcome obstacles or challenges, despite unfavorable conditions or opposition.
The idiom "in someone's face" means to confront or challenge someone in a direct and aggressive manner, often done to assert dominance or to express anger or frustration.
The idiom "in the face of" means to confront or deal with something difficult or challenging. It implies facing a problem or obstacle directly and not being intimidated or deterred by it.
The idiom "go to the wall" means to face defeat or failure, often in a financial or competitive context.
The idiom "go against the grain" means to act or think in a way that is contrary to what is expected or to the usual pattern. It suggests going against the established norms, conventions, or opinions.
The idiom "for all the world" means in the strongest or most obvious way. It is used to emphasize the certainty or truth of a statement or situation.
An idiom that means to go against or defy something, often in a defiant or bold manner.
Unwavering Defiance
In popular usage, the idiom "against the world" conveys a sense of fierce opposition or defiance. This phrase encapsulates a deep-rooted belief in oneself and an unwillingness to succumb to external pressures. It is often used in literature, music, and film to convey a range of emotions and messages. The idiom symbolizes the struggle for justice, the fight against oppression, or even the quest for love in a hostile world.
The origins and etymology of this idiom are uncertain, but its meaning resonates with a broader human desire for individualism, resilience, and self-reliance. It taps into the human spirit's innate need for self-preservation and the pursuit of personal goals, regardless of external circumstances or societal expectations.
"against the grain" is a related idiom that expresses opposition or nonconformity. It refers to going against conventional wisdom or doing something in a way that is different from what is expected. This idiom signifies a rebellious spirit and a refusal to conform to societal norms or expectations.
The idiom "fly in the face of" is another related expression that conveys a similar meaning. It describes the act of openly defying or contradicting something, typically a widely accepted belief or practice. This idiom represents a bold and confident stance against prevailing opinions or established conventions.
"go against the grain" is a similar idiom that emphasizes the act of resisting conformity or going against the prevailing sentiment. It signifies a deliberate choice to follow one's own instincts or beliefs, even if they go against the dominant ideology or groupthink.
"Against all odds" is yet another related idiom that highlights the determination to succeed despite facing overwhelming challenges. This expression signifies a refusal to give up or be defeated by unfavorable circumstances. It embodies a relentless spirit and unwavering commitment to achieving one's goals.
Overall, the idiom "against the world" and its related idioms capture the universal human desire for self-expression, autonomy, and resilience. They embody the defiance against external forces and the determination to forge one's own path. While their exact origins remain elusive, their meaning and significance resonate across cultures and languages. They speak to the human condition, reminding us of our innate strength and capacity to overcome adversity. They serve as powerful reminders of the limitless possibilities that exist when one steadfastly believes in themselves and is willing to go against the odds.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "against the world" can be used in a sentence:
- Even though everyone doubted her, she stood her ground and fought against the world.
- No matter the obstacles, their love prevailed against the world.
- The underdog team joined forces and proved they could win against the world.
More "Defiance" idioms
