settle old scores (with someone)

settle old scores (with someone)

To get vengeance on someone for a past transgression or grievance; to punish someone for causing one harm or misfortune in the past. The former champion entered the competition looking to settle old scores with the young player who dethroned him in the previous tournament. After five years hiding from the law, Hofstadter decided it was time to return to town and settle old scores.

See also: old, score, settle

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