where it counts
3
5.5
- idiom
:
donde importa
- But it's got it where it counts, because the thing just works.
- where it counts most
But we're large where it counts in our hearts.
- But we're large where it counts in our hearts.
- But it's got it where it counts, because the thing just works.
- Disney has got it where it counts.
- It may not look like much, but she's got it where it counts, kid, right?
Examples
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It was too late; women were onto them and proved it where it counts, in the voting booth.
Blog text (21) -
Well, maybe you’ve changed on the inside where it counts.
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To hit them where it counts, cut off their money supply.
Blog text (15) -
It's an awesome phone where it counts.
Blog text (17) -
If you could benefit from more confidence where it counts, Blue Chew is the fast, easy way to enhance your performance.
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Or movie studios can target male consumers where it counts the most: on their phones.
Blog text (3) -
You're a champion on the track, where it counts.
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Much of the music matches the slapstick, but it does get serious where it counts.
Blog text (3) -
Where it counts, Americans are traditionalists.
Blog text (11) -
You should focus on your studies where it counts, especially in math and science.
How Important
Surface Forms
Morphology
where + it + count
The meaning is compositionally derived: 'where' indicates the location/situation, 'it' refers to the relevant matter, and 'count' (to be important) yields 'in the places/situations that matter.' This locative + verb pattern is common in English and other languages, so a B1 learner who knows the constituent words can readily infer the intended meaning.
Etymology
The phrase where it counts comes from thinking about a game: only the actions that change the score 'count', so people focus on the places where points are won. So it means 'in the most important places' or 'in the parts that really matter'.