The devil/hell to pay

usgb
phrase

Serious issues or penalties coming as a result of an action or decision.

If he keeps procrastinating on his projects, there will be the devil to pay when his boss finds out.
Visual representation of "the devil/hell to pay" - Serious issues or penalties coming as a result of an action or decision

Often appears as...

  • there's the devil to pay
  • there'll be the devil to pay

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "the devil/hell to pay"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Outcome

Used when someone expects a negative result because of their actions.

Illustration for Negative Outcome
He didn't study at all, so there'll be the devil to pay after his exams.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Immediate Consequences

It suggests immediate and unavoidable consequences will follow.

Illustration for Immediate Consequences
She missed her deadline; now there's the devil to pay.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Risk Warning

Warns about risks from a specific decision or action.

Illustration for Risk Warning
If you skip the safety checks, there will be the devil to pay.
Visual representation of the word "The devil/hell to pay"

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