count against
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To make things harder for someone because it looks bad for them.
Literal meaning: To be counted (tallied) on the negative side — mostly transparent.
Meanings
1 B2 neutral
To be a negative factor that reduces someone's chances of success in a competition, application, or judgment.
"His lack of relevant qualifications could count against him in the interview."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 neutral
In sports, to be recorded as a penalty or minus point against a player or team.
"The yellow card will count against the team's overall fair-play rating."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Commonly used in job applications, legal contexts, competitions, and assessments. The subject is usually an abstract noun (lack of experience, criminal record) or a situation.
Commonly used with
record experience age background reputation decision
Forms
Base
count against
I/you/we/they
3rd person
counts against
he/she/it
Past simple
counted against
yesterday
Past participle
counted against
have + pp
-ing form
counting against
continuous
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