cite (something) chapter and verse
(redirected from cites (something) chapter and verse)cite (something) chapter and verse
To recite all the facts or details of something. Likened to quoting Scripture by citing the exact chapter and verse where it appears. Ask Stan if you need to be updated on the case—he can cite it chapter and verse.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
chapter and verse, cite/give
Back up a statement or belief by citing the precise authority on which it is based. The chapter and verse refer to the Bible, which was long considered the ultimate authority, and was (and is) frequently quoted by the clergy with precise attribution to the exact chapter and verse. The figurative use, referring to any established set of rules, dates from the seventeenth century and was long very common, but is heard less often today.
The Dictionary of Clichés by Christine Ammer Copyright © 2013 by Christine Ammer