English Dictionary

tell against

verb

(transitive, idiomatic) To function as a liability (for someone); to put into a condition of disadvantage. / (transitive, idiomatic) To serve as evidence which casts doubt upon.

His lack of experience may tell against him in the job interview.

意味（1）

(transitive, idiomatic) To function as a liability (for someone); to put into a condition of disadvantage.

[S]ome people . . . have been so short-sighted and reckless as to clamor for an easy dissolution of the marriage-contract. . . . Is it possible that they do not see that this is a liberty which, once granted, would always tell against the weaker sex?

意味（2）

(transitive, idiomatic) To serve as evidence which casts doubt upon.

She knew he was disposed to catch at anything that seemed to tell against Godwin's claims.