counter with

counter with (something)

1. To respond to something with something or in a particular way. A noun or pronoun can be used between "counter" and "with." Amanda can always counter a joke with a witty retort of her own. I was annoyed by that comment, so I countered with a scowl. A: "Of course Billy countered with something sarcastic." B: "Of course. That boy is incapable of being serious."

2. To refute someone or something. A noun or pronoun can be used between "counter" and "with." When the suspect countered with an alibi, we had to release him. Once Phil stopped spewing out nonsensical claims, I was able to counter them with the truth. Allow me to counter with evidence that disputes the mayor's claims that he never violated the tax code as a private citizen.

See also: counter

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

counter someone or something with something

to refute someone or something with something. She countered our evidence with an eyewitness. I countered Nancy with a better argument.

See also: counter

counter with something

to say something in refutation of something; to strike back with something. Aren't you going to counter with an argument? He countered with a punch in the jaw.

See also: counter

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.