make common cause
Unite for purpose
Make common cause is to unite with others in pursuit of a shared objective, typically setting aside differences to address a mutual concern: Environmental groups made common cause with local fishermen to oppose the pipeline.
The phrase suggests a temporary or strategic alliance rather than permanent partnership—former rivals making common cause against a greater threat.
- join forcesCollaborate with others
- close ranksUnite defensively as group
- band togetherUnite for shared purpose
- circle the wagonsAdopt collective defense
- shared interestsPursuits enjoyed by multiple people
buddy up · throw in with · pull together · alliance · strange bedfellows · coalition · collaborate · solidarity · link arms · cooperation · teamwork · collective · unite · team up · mutual understanding · mutual support · confederacy · partnership
make common causeoppose
Act against something
undermine · sabotage · antagonize · combat · turn against
make common causego it alone
Proceed without help
part ways · break ranks · split up · dissociate · go one's own way
make common causego it alone
Proceed without help
stand alone · fly solo · keep one's distance · go one's own way
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