Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
serve-someone-right
idiomatic expression
sɜrv ˈsʌmwʌn raɪt
Definition
To give someone what they deserve, especially as a consequence of their actions.
Examples
- If you cheat on the exam, it’ll serve you right if you fail.
- He was rude to everyone, so when he got left out of the party, it served him right.
Meaning
This phrase implies that a person is receiving the appropriate outcome based on their previous behavior, often suggesting a sense of justice or retribution.
Synonyms
- serve justice
- get what one deserves
- pay for one’s actions