make an example of somebody
make an example (out) of (one)
To punish one harshly so that others will avoid committing the same offense in order to avoid such punishment. The judge was known to make an example of certain criminals by handing out severe sentences. Miss Johnson made an example of out Timmy when he started talking during the presentation, and everybody else was dead silent afterward.
See also: example, make, of
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
make an eˈxample of somebody
punish somebody severely for a mistake, crime, etc. so that others will be less likely to do wrong: The judge decided to make an example of the leaders of the riot in order to prevent other disturbances.See also: example, make, of, somebody
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- make an example (out) of (one)
- make an example of
- escape the bear and fall to the lion
- fall into/avoid the trap of doing something
- avoid the trap of (doing something)
- bury (one's) head in the sand
- bury head in the sand
- bury your head in the sand
- bury/hide your head in the sand
- hide (one's) head in the sand