Somebody wouldn’t be seen/caught dead…
phrase
When a person would never do something because they don't like it or they think it's beneath their dignity.
She has such a high fashion sense, she wouldn't be caught dead wearing flip-flops.
Often appears as...
- wouldn't be caught dead in
- wouldn't be seen dead with
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
phrase
When a person would never do something because they don't like it or they think it's beneath their dignity.
She has such a high fashion sense, she wouldn't be caught dead wearing flip-flops.
Often appears as...
- wouldn't be caught dead in
- wouldn't be seen dead with
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Strong Dislike
Use the phrase to express strong negative feelings toward something.
He wouldn't be seen dead at a cheap fast-food restaurant.
Pro Tip 2/3Hyperbolic Expression
It's an exaggeration; not to be taken literally, but emphasizes the intensity of the dislike.
She wouldn't be caught dead in a second-hand store.
Pro Tip 3/3Informal Context
The phrase is informal, more suitable for casual conversations than formal writing.
My cousin wouldn't be seen dead at a karaoke bar.
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