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serve sb right

British pronunciation/sˈɜːv ˌɛsbˈiː ɹˈaɪt/
American pronunciation/sˈɜːv ˌɛsbˈiː ɹˈaɪt/
to serve sb right
[PHRASE]
1

to receive an unfortunate consequence or punishment that one truly deserves as a result of one's wrong behavior

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to [serve] {sb} right definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "serve someone right" and when to use it?

The idiom "serve someone right" has been in use for several centuries, and its exact origin is unclear. It is a common idiomatic expression that has become part of the English language. The phrase likely evolved from the concept of justice or retribution, where someone receives the consequences or outcomes that they deserve based on their actions. The phrase can also be used in societal or political discussions, highlighting instances where individuals or groups face repercussions for their unethical or harmful actions.

Examples
1It serves him right after the way he's treated her.
2Serves him right for biting off more than he could chew.
3Whether or not that's a good thing, I mean, it's serving customers right?
4Right off the bat you see you have a lever that dispenses your soft serve ice cream right into the cone You have your little area where it can stack the cones which is super cute.
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