weigh

verb

UK/weɪ/
US/weɪ/

Definitions of weigh verb

measurement

  1. B1NounTransitive

    To have a specified heaviness or to measure the heaviness of an object.

    • A 15-ton satellite was successfully launched into orbit yesterday.

    • She uses her bathroom scale to check her weight weekly.

    • Your baggage needs to be weighed before being loaded onto the plane.

impact

  1. IntransitiveVerb + adv/prep

    To have an influence or be of considerable importance (of a fact or event).

    • The ease of access to a skilled labor force was a crucial factor in our choice of a location for the new factory.

    • This decision weighs heavily on the future of the company.

    • Market trends weigh heavily on us when making investment decisions.

evaluation

  1. B2Transitive

    To carefully consider, typically by comparing different facts or possibilities, before making a decision.

    • We can't decide the best time to start until we have weighed all the relevant factors.

    • When considering economic gains, one must weigh them against the potential risks of handling radioactive nuclear waste.

    • When choosing a job offer, carefully weigh the pros and cons of each company.

Phrases of weigh verb

  • weigh anchor

    To raise a ship's anchor, allowing it to begin its voyage.

    At dawn, the captain ordered the crew to weigh anchor.

Idioms

  • weigh your words

    To carefully consider and choose one's words before speaking, ensuring they are appropriate and accurate.

    When speaking in public, you must weigh your words carefully to avoid misunderstandings.

  • weigh a ton

    To be extremely heavy.

    This box of books weighs a ton; I can't move it by myself.

Phrasal Verbs of weigh

  • weigh something up

    to thoroughly evaluate the pros and cons of a situation before deciding

    Before making a choice, he weighed up the pros and cons of each option.

  • weigh something out

    to determine a specific weight of a substance by measuring it

    She weighed out three grams of salt in the kitchen to start cooking.

  • weigh in

    to be officially measured in weight prior to participating in a sport, particularly in boxing or horse racing

    Before the match, all boxers must weigh in.

  • weigh on someone/something

    When a difficulty or obligation causes you distress or unhappiness.

    Her health issues weigh heavily on her mind.

  • weigh someone/something down

    When a person or object is burdened by carrying an excessive amount of something.

    The elderly man was weighed down by the heavy backpack on his shoulders.

  • weigh someone down

    to cause a person to feel anxious and disheartened due to burdens, obligations, or issues

    The pressure from work weighs her down and truly makes her feel anxious.

  • weigh someone/something up

    to evaluate someone's capabilities and character, or a situation, through thoughtful consideration

    Before making a decision, the boss needs to weigh up the candidate's skills and experience.