be the death of

Idioms  

1. Cause the death of something or someone, as in This comedian is so funny, he'll be the death of me. Although this phrase can be used literally, meaning “to kill someone or something,” it has also been used hyperbolically (as in the example) since the late 1500s. Shakespeare used it in 1 Henry IV (2:1): “Since the price of oats rose, it was the death of him.”

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

be the death of

This is going to be the death of me, said the boss’s eyes.

From Slate ● Jan. 27, 2024

“If that comes in, that would definitely be the death of the community,” he said.

From Seattle Times ● Aug. 11, 2023

“People said it would be the death of him, but it wasn’t. It was his key to success,” said Fowler, who roomed with Mr. Jenrette in college.

From Washington Post ● Mar. 20, 2023

It makes the most sense, story-wise, for Will to be the death of the final season.

From Salon ● Jul. 7, 2022

“Thunder’s gon’ be the death of me,” Grandpop muttered.

From "As Brave As You" by Jason Reynolds