weigh against: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘weigh against’ mean?
The idiom weigh against means to consider the disadvantage or negative impact of something when making a decision or judgment. It implies assessing the cons or drawbacks in relation to other factors or options.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "win the battle, but lose the war" means to achieve a small victory or success in a specific situation, but ultimately suffer a larger or more important defeat in the overall context or long-term outcome.
The idiom "win over" means to gain someone's support, approval, or affection by persuading them or gradually convincing them of one's worth or capabilities.
The idiom "which way the wind is blowing" means to be aware of current trends or popular opinions in order to adapt or make decisions accordingly.
The idiom "what with" is used to indicate a reason or cause for a certain situation or outcome. It suggests that various factors or circumstances have contributed to the current state or result.
The idiom "what's the good of" is used to question the practical value or usefulness of something. It expresses a doubt or skepticism about the benefits or advantages of a particular action or situation.
The idiom "weigh in" means to express or give an opinion on a particular matter, often during a discussion or debate, based on one's knowledge or expertise.
The idiom "weigh down" means to burden or make someone feel heavy with worry, responsibility, or sadness.
The idiom "weed out" means to remove or eliminate unwanted or unnecessary things or people in order to improve the overall quality, efficiency, or effectiveness of a group or situation.
Weighing Options
The idiom "weigh against" is a common expression in the English language with a specific meaning. This analysis aims to shed light on the origins and usage of this idiom for a US audience.
The phrase "weigh against" is commonly used to describe considering the disadvantages or negative aspects of a decision or situation. It signifies evaluating the cons and potential risks before reaching a conclusion.
The idiomatic expression "weigh against" is believed to have originated from the literal act of weighing objects on a scale. When an object is placed on one side, the counterweight on the other side determines its weight. In a figurative sense, this act of weighing became associated with considering the pros and cons when making a decision.
The usage of "weigh against" can be traced back to the early 17th century. It gained popularity and established its place in the English language over time. This idiom is primarily used in formal or professional settings, including business, law, and academic discussions, where the careful consideration of opposing factors is crucial.
One common usage of "weigh against" is in legal contexts. Lawyers and judges often employ the phrase when evaluating evidence or the merits of a case. In these situations, the idiom emphasizes carefully assessing both sides before making a decision.
In everyday conversations, "weigh against" can also be used in a wider sense. People may employ the expression to discuss personal dilemmas or choices they face. By considering the potential drawbacks or negative consequences, individuals can determine if the benefits outweigh the negatives, providing a well-rounded viewpoint before moving forward.
It is worth noting that the idiom "weigh against" is often used in conjunction with the phrase "typically." This pairing emphasizes that the negatives or disadvantages usually hold more weight or significance in a given situation. This strengthens the impact of the idiom, underlining the importance of considering potentially adverse aspects.
While the idiom "weigh against" has a well-established meaning and usage, its application can vary depending on the context. The specifics of each situation and the factors being evaluated ultimately determine the significance of what is weighed against. This idiom reminds us to carefully consider all facets, allowing for a comprehensive assessment before making decisions.
On a related note, the idiom "weigh in" shares similarities with "weigh against." It is used when someone adds their opinion or contributes to a discussion. Similar to "weigh against," "weigh in" emphasizes the importance of considering different viewpoints before making a decision.
Another related idiom is "weigh down." This phrase is used to describe something that burdens or makes a situation more difficult. When something weighs down on a decision or situation, it adds additional challenges or drawbacks to consider.
Furthermore, the idiom "give weight" can be related to "weigh against." It means to consider something as important or influential when making a decision. When certain factors give weight to a decision, they hold significance in the evaluation process.
An additional idiom, "up against," is also relevant to the concept of "weigh against." "Up against" is used when someone is facing a difficult situation or strong opposition. It adds the element of challenging circumstances to the evaluation process.
Lastly, the idiom "tell against" can be connected to "weigh against." It is used to describe how certain factors work to someone's disadvantage. When something tells against a decision or situation, it acts as a negative influence that should be considered.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "weigh against" can be used in a sentence:
- The evidence presented in court weighs against the defendant's claim of innocence.
- The benefits of the new policy weigh against the potential risks it may pose.
- When deciding on which college to attend, the cost of tuition weighed against the reputation of the schools.
More "Comparison" idioms
