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serve right

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serve someone right

[for an act or event] to punish someone fairly (for doing something). John copied off my test paper. It would serve him right if he fails the test. It'd serve John right if he got arrested.

See also: right, serve

serve you right

you deserve the punishment that you received After the way she treated him, it would serve her right if he left her.

Usage notes: often said with an attitude of pleasure because someone you do not like is suffering

See also: right, serve

serve somebody right

if something bad that happens serves someone right, they deserve it It would serve you right if your children never spoke to you again. And she didn't get the promotion she'd hoped for, which served her right for being so smug.

See also: right, serve

serve (someone) right

To be deserved under the circumstances: Punish him; it will serve him right for what he has done to you.

See also: right, serve