释义 |
tell against (someone or something) tell against (someone or something)To impact on or affect someone or something in a particularly disadvantageous, detrimental, or otherwise adverse manner. The lineup of superstar athletes should have told against the opposition, an band of newcomers and B-listers, but the underdogs' tenacity and energy saw them manage a stunning upset. Not being able to represent life as it really is will unfortunately tell against writers and artists living under this oppressive regime.See also: telltell againstv. To have an adverse impact on someone or something: Their lack of experience may tell against them during the job interview.See also: tell |