verb · B2

Align

uh-LYN/əˈlaɪn/

To align is to bring things into a straight line, or to share a position or aim: align the text, align with the policy. Line up is everyday for the physical sense; side with is blunter for politics. Alignment is the noun. The pattern is align with (a view or group). In speech, line up / share the same aim is enough. Do not write align to for people and policies — with is the usual British choice.

Meaning

To bring things into a straight line, or to share a position or aim (align with).

Examples

“The party aligned itself with the unions.”
“Align the photographs with the left margin, or the page will look drunk.”
“The department aligned with the union on pay, but not on the strike date.”

Good to know

Bring into line, or share a position. align with. Everyday: line up / side with. Noun: alignment. Not usually “align to” for views.

Near in meaning

line up

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