know where all the bodies are buried

know where (all) the bodies are buried

To know a large amount of secret or scandalous information about a person or group that they would not want to be revealed, especially due to one's lengthy experience with that person or group. Often used in relation to one who wields this information for their own benefit or advantage. I've been an accountant with this company for over 50 years, so trust me, I know where all the bodies are buried. He climbed to power because he worked for several top government and military officials and he knew where the bodies were buried.

See also: body, bury, know

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

know where all the bodies are buried

Fig. to know all the secrets and intrigue from the past; to know all the relevant and perhaps hidden details. He is a good choice for president because he knows where all the bodies are buried. Since he knows where all the bodies are buried, he is the only one who can advise us.

See also: all, body, bury, know

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.