Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

dead-to-rights

idiom

/dɛd tə raɪts/

Definition

In a situation where someone is clearly caught or found guilty of something, often with undeniable evidence.

Examples

The thief was caught dead-to-rights with the stolen goods in his hands.
When the surveillance footage was reviewed, he was found dead-to-rights in the act of cheating.
She knew she was dead-to-rights after the manager discovered her lying on the report.

Meaning

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is not just suspected but has clear and undeniable proof against them, making it impossible for them to deny their guilt.