in trouble with

Idioms

In difficulties with someone, especially an authority. For example, If they don't shovel their walk, they'll be in trouble with their neighbors. This idiom is also put as, as in Watch what you say or you'll get into trouble with the teacher. [Mid-1500s] Also see hot water; in a fix.

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.

“It was like, ‘Ha ha, you’re not going to be the one who gets in trouble with this because you’re McKay Coppins,’ ” Ostacher told me.

From Slate • May 5, 2026

He makes corporate announcements on the social-media platform now known as X, including one about possibly taking Tesla private that got him in trouble with regulators.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

You’re going to get me in trouble with my wife.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 8, 2026

That could, however, land Gabon in trouble with football's world governing body FIFA, which bans government interference in the affairs of its member associations.

From Barron's • Jan. 1, 2026

Some have been in trouble with the law, have family disputes, or are just alone and have no one to turn to.

From "The Freedom Writers Diary" by The Freedom Writers

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