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be a fate worse than death

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be a fate worse than death

To be a very unpleasant situation or experience. This phrase is usually used hyperbolically, especially when referring to some form of punishment. It will be a fate worse than death if my parents catch me sneaking in after curfew. I appreciate Gina inviting me to go with her to the theater, but having to listen to those opera singers would be a fate worse than death.

See also: death, fate, worse

be a fate worse than death

  (humorous)

to be the worst thing that can happen to you When you're 16, an evening at home with your parents is a fate worse than death.

See seal fate, tempt fate

See also: death, fate, worse