put it to
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Present for consideration, as in Let's put it to a vote, or I put it to you, I did the best I could under the circumstances. [Mid-1700s]
Present something in a forceful, candid manner to someone, as in I can't put it to you any more clearly—stay away from the electrical equipment.
Overburden with tasks or work, as in They really put it to him, expecting to do all the packing.
Blame on, as in They didn't know who broke the window so they put it to Sam.
Take unfair advantage, cheat, as in That used-car dealer really put it to Betty.
QUIZ
WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?
Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!
Question 1 of 7
Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.
Words nearby put it to
The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.