get (the) what for

get (the) what for

To be thoroughly and intensely punished, rebuked, scolded, or berated. I got the what for from my parents last night for taking the car without permission. I got what for from the boss when I lost the company that big account. A: "Please, you won't get in trouble while your parents are away." B: "Are you joking? I'll just get the what for from my grandmother instead!"

See also: for, get, what

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

give somebody/get what ˈfor

(British English, spoken) punish somebody/be punished, usually severely: I’ll give her what for if she does that again. ♢ If you steal any more of my apples, you’ll get what for.

See also: for, get, give, somebody, what

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