make an example of somebody

make an example (out) of (one)

To punish one harshly so that others will avoid committing the same offense in order to avoid such punishment. The judge was known to make an example of certain criminals by handing out severe sentences. Miss Johnson made an example out of Timmy when he started talking during the presentation, and everybody else was dead silent afterward.

See also: an, example, make, of

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

make an eˈxample of somebody

punish somebody severely for a mistake, crime, etc. so that others will be less likely to do wrong: The judge decided to make an example of the leaders of the riot in order to prevent other disturbances.

See also: an, example, make, of, somebody

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017