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to skin somebody alive
01
to punish a person harshly, often by severely criticizing them
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "skin someone alive" and when to use it?
The idiom "skin someone alive" likely originated from the graphic imagery of removing a person's skin, emphasizing a severe or intense form of punishment or criticism. This metaphorical expression suggests a figurative stripping away of someone's defenses, leaving them exposed to harsh consequences or verbal attack. This phrase is used to convey a strong sense of retribution or admonition, often used to describe severe scolding or punishment.
Example
When the teenager came home hours past curfew, his strict parents were furious and threatened to skin him alive if it happened again, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and respect for rules.
