bring (one) to book
bring (one) to book
To confront or question one about one's wrongdoings, often as a precursor to punishment. That's it—the next time I see Rachel, I'm bringing her to book! I simply can't tolerate her selfish behavior any longer. I'm sure the boss is going to bring me to book for my outburst during the meeting. I just hope I don't get fired.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
bring to book
Call to account, investigate. For example, He was acquitted, but one day soon he'll be brought to book, or As for your records, the IRS is sure to bring you to book concerning your tax deductions. This term uses book in the sense of "a written record," such as an account book or ledger. [c. 1800]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
bring someone to book
bring someone to justice; punish someone.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
bring somebody to ˈbook (for something)
(formal, especially British English) make somebody explain their actions, or punish them: This is just another of the many crimes for which nobody was ever brought to book.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
bring to book
To demand an explanation from; call to account.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.