catch it

Idioms

Also, get it. Receive a punishment or scolding, as in If I forget anything on the shopping list, I'll catch it, or I'm really going to get it when I turn in my paper late. [Colloquial; early 1800s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

And if a spark did catch, it could quickly mirror the inferno that was engulfing Pacific Palisades, or worse.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

If you catch it early, you can pursue lifestyle or medical interventions to slow the disease.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 3, 2026

No wonder everyone is trying to catch it.

From Slate • Nov. 19, 2025

"Our report underscores the need for more urine testing to catch it early and the need to ensure that patients can afford and access therapy once they are diagnosed."

From Science Daily • Nov. 18, 2025

“I suppose I must catch it like a cough,” said Biddy, quietly; and went on with her sewing.

From "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023