English Reference

Phrasal verb

rally around

Definition

phrasal verb. to come together as a group to help or support someone who is in a difficult situation.

phrasal verb. To assemble or combine efforts in support of a person, cause, or organization, particularly during a crisis. This phrasal verb emphasizes collective action in response to a specific need.

Examples

“The whole town rallied around the family after the fire.”

“When the local library faced closure, the community rallied around to organize a successful fundraising campaign.”

“Political allies often rally around an embattled leader to project an image of unity and strength during a public scandal.”

Examples

simple

“The whole town rallied around the family after the fire.”

contextual

“When the local library faced closure, the community rallied around to organize a successful fundraising campaign.”

complex

“Political allies often rally around an embattled leader to project an image of unity and strength during a public scandal.”

Usage

Usually followed by a person, a group, or a cause that needs help.

Teaching tip

Contrast with 'support' (general) and 'unite' (more formal); 'rally around' emphasizes the collective movement toward a specific point of need.

Pitfall

They rallied around of the leader.

They rallied around the leader.

The preposition 'around' connects directly to the object; adding 'of' is a common error.

Phrasal verb

Particles

around

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

rally + around + object

Synonyms

supportuniteget behindstand by

Antonyms

abandondesertoppose

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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