It’s a fair cop

usgb
phrase

An acceptance that someone has been caught fairly and deserves to be punished.

I was speeding, officer, and you caught me. It's a fair cop.
Visual representation of "it’s a fair cop" - An acceptance that someone has been caught fairly and deserves to be punished.

Often appears as...

  • hold up hands
  • admit

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "it’s a fair cop"
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British Origin

Know that 'it's a fair cop' is primarily used in British English, not American English.

Illustration for British Origin
When in the UK, saying 'it's a fair cop' will sound natural, but not in the US.
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Informal Use

'It's a fair cop' is informal and often used lightheartedly or humorously.

Illustration for Informal Use
When my mum found the hidden sweets, I chuckled and said, 'It's a fair cop.'
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Legal Context

The phrase can be used in minor legal contexts, like acknowledging small wrongdoings.

Illustration for Legal Context
Caught parking illegally, I told the warden, 'It's a fair cop.'
Visual representation of the word "It’s a fair cop"

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