bring somebody 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.

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.