make free with
Also found in: Legal.
make free with (someone or something)
To exploit or take liberties with someone or something; to treat someone or something without much care or tact. Why does it seem like everyone in the office makes free with the food in the fridge? It's clearly labeled! Most historical films make free with the facts in order to simplify the narrative. Please don't make free with the interns by making them get you coffee all day.
make free with someone
to exploit someone; to take advantage of someone. You shouldn't make free with your employees. They are liable to take you to court. He was making free with his secretary, having her do his private business.
make free with something
to use something freely; to exploit something. You can make free with the hot water. We have a huge tank. Sally is making free with the sugar I was saving for breakfast cereal.
make free with
Take liberties with, treat very familiarly, as in That reporter makes free with the truth, or It's best not to make free with one's employees. This term was first recorded in 1714.