give it to

Idioms  

1. Punish or reprimand, as in Dad really gave it to Tom for coming in so late. This expression, implying a physical or verbal attack, dates from the late 1500s. Also see give someone hell. In more recent times the expression gave rise to give it to someone straight, meaning “to tell someone something candidly and directly.” For example, I asked the doctor to give it to use straight about Mother's condition.

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Example Sentences

You have to be honest with yourself to be able to walk away or say no to something or be like, “I’ve just outgrown this, give it to someone else, it’s not right for me anymore.”

From Los Angeles Times

“Grandpa,” I said, “will you take care of my money, and pay Indian Tom for the pony? If I have any left after I buy that saddle and gun, I’ll give it to Mama.”

From Literature

I didn’t want her baby and she didn’t want to give it to me.

From Literature

This is the perfect time to give it to a crafty friend or neighbor.

From MarketWatch

"It makes sense to use the building and give it to the police, to the public authorities," he said.

From Barron's

Related Words

• afflict
• bother
• depress
• encumber
• hamper
• hinder
• lade
• oppress
• overload
• overwhelm
• weigh down