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Definition

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

To serve as evidence which casts doubt upon.

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In Context

  • "[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?"
  • "Ernest's want of muscular strength did not tell against him here."
  • "[H]ard as he worked, his age was beginning to tell against him."
  • "She knew he was disposed to catch at anything that seemed to tell against Godwin's claims."
  • ""Such a fact must tell against the theory.""
  • "[T]he comma tells against this reading."
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Also Said As

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See Also

  • counter-evidence
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