What are the definitions of “count for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Be recognised as important, worthwhile or valuable.
Experience COUNTS FOR a lot in decision making.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “count for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb count for is to be recognized as important, worthwhile, or valuable. It is often used to emphasize the significance of something, such as experience, knowledge, or skills, in a particular situation.
What are the different verb forms of “count for”?
| Root Verb | count for |
| Third Person Singular Present | counts for |
| Present Participle | counting for |
| Simple Past | counted for |
| Past Participle | counted for |
Example
In this job, your skills count for more than your education.
Example
Her dedication counts for a lot in the team's success.
Example
His years of experience are counting for a lot in the decision-making process.
Example
In the past, a person's social status counted for more than their abilities.
Example
Her hard work has always counted for a lot in her career.
What kind of phrasal verb is “count for”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“count for” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
In this competition, creativity counts for a lot.
Example
Your opinion counts for a lot in our decision.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“count for” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
In this competition, creativity counts for a lot.
Example
Your opinion counts for a lot in our decision.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “count for”?
Good things to know
Does “count for” have an informal or formal tone?
Count for is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
