Cook the books

usgb
verb

To change or hide financial facts in a company's accounting records to show fake profits.

The CEO tried to cook the books to make the company look profitable to potential investors.
Visual representation of "cook the books" - To change or hide financial facts in a company's accounting records to show fake profits

Often appears as...

  • caught cooking the books
  • accused of cooking the books

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "cook the books"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Crime Suggestion

Suggests illegal activity without stating it outright; used to imply fraudulent financial manipulation.

Illustration for Crime Suggestion
When he said they might need to 'cook the books,' I knew he wasn't suggesting actual cooking.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Connotation

Has a negative meaning and is used to talk about dishonest activities.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
After the scandal, everyone knew they had been cooking the books for years.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Business Context

Most commonly used in business or financial contexts, often involving company accounts.

Illustration for Business Context
The accountant was fired for cooking the books and misrepresenting the company's earnings.
Visual representation of the word "Cook the books"

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