rally around

/ˈræli əˈraʊnd/◆phrasal verb
to unite in support of someone or something

The team rallied around their injured captain during the game.

The team united in support of their injured captain during the game.

◆ What It Really Means
To come together and support someone or something, especially in a time of difficulty or crisis.
Literal Meaning
To gather or assemble around someone or something.
Literal Breakdown
rallyto gather or assemble+aroundin a circular or surrounding manner
◇ Mental Image
A mental picture of people gathering closely around someone or something to show support, like a protective circle.
◈ When to Use
A sports team rallying around their injured player to show solidarity and encouragement during a game.
◉ Cultural Note
This phrase is commonly used in English-speaking cultures to describe collective support, often in times of adversity or celebration.
informal

To come together and support someone or something, especially in a time of difficulty or crisis.

After the scandal, the community rallied around the mayor to show their support.

After the scandal, the community united to support the mayor.

The employees rallied around their manager when the company faced financial troubles.

The employees united to support their manager when the company faced financial troubles.

This phrase is often used in contexts where collective support is needed, such as in sports, politics, or personal crises.

Collocations

rally around someoneto unite in support of a personrally around a causeto unite in support of an idea or movement

Related Phrases

rally togetherphrasal verb
to come together in support
stand unitedphrase
to remain together in support

Pro Tip

Usage Tip

Use 'rally around' when describing a group coming together to support someone or something during a challenging time.

Gold Rule

Context Rule

This phrase is typically used in contexts where collective support is needed, such as in sports, politics, or personal crises.

Word Origin

The verb 'rally' comes from the French 'rallier,' meaning 'to bring together.' The phrase 'rally around' has been used in English since the 19th century to describe collective support.

Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly in situations where solidarity or collective action is needed.

Word Breakdown

rally
to come together or unite
root
+
around
in support of
preposition
English Dictionary
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