1 B2 neutral
To consider the negative aspects or disadvantages of something in comparison to its positive aspects.
"You need to weigh the long commute against the higher salary before accepting the job."
inseparable
weigh against
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To compare the importance or value of one thing in relation to another when making a decision.
In plain English
To think about whether something good or bad is more important than something else.
What does "weigh against" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic formal
To consider a piece of evidence or a factor as counting against someone or something in a judgment or assessment.
"His lack of experience will be weighed against him during the selection process."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To place something on a scale opposite another object to compare their physical weights.
Actually means
To think about whether something good or bad is more important than something else.
Usage tip
Often used in formal, legal, or analytical contexts. Commonly appears in passive constructions: 'the risks must be weighed against the benefits.'
Words that pair with "weigh against"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
benefits risks costs evidence advantages disadvantages
How to conjugate "weigh against"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
weigh against
I/you/we/they
3rd person
weighs against
he/she/it
Past simple
weighed against
yesterday
Past participle
weighed against
have + pp
-ing form
weighing against
continuous
Hear "weigh against" in the wild
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