Throw the book at somebody

usgb
phrasal verb

To punish or criticize someone as severely as possible.

If you break the law, the judge will throw the book at you.
Visual representation of "throw the book at somebody" - To punish or criticize someone as severely as possible

Often appears as...

  • judge throw the book
  • police throw the book

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "throw the book at somebody"
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Legal Connotations

This phrase often appears in legal contexts, implying strict punishment within the law's full extent.

Illustration for Legal Connotations
After repeated offenses, the court decided to throw the book at the repeat offender.
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Severity

It highlights the strongest possible action against someone, showing no leniency.

Illustration for Severity
The principal decided to throw the book at the students for their prank.
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Figurative Speech

Understand that it's a figurative term; no physical book is used.

Illustration for Figurative Speech
When I lied about finishing my chores, my parents decided to throw the book at me.
Visual representation of the word "Throw the book at somebody"

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