raw deal

Idioms  

1. An instance of unfair or harsh treatment, as in After 25 years with the bank Bob got a raw deal—no pension, no retirement benefits of any kind, just a gold watch. Raw here means “crude” or “unfair.” [First half of 1900s]

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Example Sentences

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raw deal

Also in Weekend Reads: The latest on SpaceX and other IPOs, a raw deal for Alphabet’s non-Berkshire shareholders and advice from the Moneyist.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 5, 2026

Sharks have been getting a raw deal from humans for a long time.

From Salon ● Jul. 21, 2024

Permit me to save you the trouble of finding out for yourself: “Be Useful” is a raw deal, a hollow PR exercise filled with precepts and quips but devoid of self-awareness or humility.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 6, 2023

The Beavers and Cougars have gotten a raw deal as the Pac-12 fell apart, leaving them looking at a future outside the Power Five while the other 10 schools scrambled to new conferences.

From Seattle Times ● Sep. 20, 2023

I know it's a raw deal for you," he went on, disregarding my interruption, "and I'd give—I'd give—half of my happiness, if you like, if I could put it right.

From Neighbours by Stead, Robert J. C.