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."
inseparable
count against
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To be a disadvantage to someone in a situation where they are being judged or evaluated.
In plain English
To make things harder for someone because it looks bad for them.
What does "count against" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To be counted (tallied) on the negative side — mostly transparent.
Actually means
To make things harder for someone because it looks bad for them.
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "count against"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
record experience age background reputation decision
How to conjugate "count against"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "count against" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "count against" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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