in trouble with
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 get in or into trouble with, as in Watch what you say or you'll get into trouble with the teacher. [Mid-1500s] Also see hot water; in a fix.
RELATED CONTENT
Don’t Get Into Double Trouble With Double NegativesWhat’s a double negative? A double negative is when two negative words or constructions are used within a single clause . Sentences with double negatives are not grammatically correct . . . and they’re confusing. That’s because double negatives cancel each other out and make a positive. So, when you use a double negative it ends up being the exact opposite of what you mean. …
Don’t Get Into Double Trouble With Double NegativesWhat’s a double negative? A double negative is when two negative words or constructions are used within a single clause . Sentences with double negatives are not grammatically correct . . . and they’re confusing. That’s because double negatives cancel each other out and make a positive. So, when you use a double negative it ends up being the exact opposite of what you mean. …
Nearby words
in toto, in touch, be, in tow, in trans., in transitu, in trouble with, in trust, in tune, in turn, in two shakes, in unison
The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.