IdiomDaily Life
English
Englishcome down hard on someone
Meaning: To punish or criticize someone severely.
Example: “The coach came down hard on players who missed practice.”
Origin: The image of a heavy blow falling from above. The phrase is common from the 20th century.
Equivalents in other languages
Bulgarian: Обръщам дебелия край (Obrashhtam debeliya kray) Literally: To turn the thick end
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Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults
Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.
- Sei un salame You're a clumsy, dopey softie — said with a smile.
- Eres más corto que las mangas de un chaleco You're not the sharpest — a bit slow on the uptake.
- Du bist nicht die hellste Kerze auf der Torte You're a little dim — not the smartest in the room.
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