on the hook

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the hook" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a person or thing being in a difficult situation, or someone being held responsible for something. For example: The rookie firefighter was put on the hook for the job of saving the trapped cat.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Glendale wasn't the only one left on the hook.

Los Angeles Times

"Taxpayer on the hook?

Independent

And who would be on the hook?

The New York Times

Taxpayers would still be on the hook.

The New York Times

Put it back on the hook.

The New Yorker

So she's on the hook for $695.

The Economist

And the taxpayers are on the hook".

The New York Times

The receiver was on the hook.

The New Yorker

That ultimately could put taxpayers back on the hook.

The New York Times

That puts taxpayers on the hook for future problems.

The Economist

Ultimately, the state is still on the hook.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the hook", ensure the context clearly indicates who is bearing the responsibility or potential negative consequences. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "on the hook" when the person or entity is not genuinely responsible or liable. Using it inaccurately can create a false impression of blame or obligation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the hook" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as an adjective to describe someone or something that is responsible, liable, or in a difficult situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

21%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the hook" is a very common and grammatically sound idiom used to describe someone or something bearing responsibility or potential negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and widespread usage. It appears most frequently in news and media, wiki, and formal business contexts, making it appropriate for both neutral and professional communication. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates who is accountable to avoid misattributing responsibility. Alternatives such as ""liable"" or ""held accountable"" may be more suitable depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

held accountable

Emphasizes the aspect of being responsible for one's actions or the outcome of an event. This alternative highlights a more formal assignment of responsibility.

liable

Implies a legal or contractual obligation, often involving financial responsibility. This alternative focuses on the legal aspect of being responsible.

responsible

A broad term indicating a duty or obligation to handle something or someone. While widely applicable, it's less specific than "on the hook" in pinpointing blame or obligation.

in the hot seat

Suggests a position of scrutiny or potential blame, often in a high-pressure environment. This alternative focuses on the stress and visibility of the situation.

left holding the bag

Indicates being unfairly burdened with responsibility, often after others have avoided it. This alternative highlights the injustice of the situation.

stuck with the bill

Focuses specifically on financial responsibility, often unexpectedly. This alternative is suitable when the obligation involves payment.

answerable

Highlights the need to provide justification or explanation for actions or outcomes. It underscores the accountability aspect.

under obligation

Emphasizes the sense of duty or commitment to fulfill a specific task or promise. It removes the negative connotation sometimes associated with "on the hook".

in charge

Highlights having control or management of something, thus implying responsibility. Differs from being burdened with a negative outcome.

accountable for

Implies a formal expectation of providing justification or accepting responsibility for certain actions or outcomes. It emphasizes the duty to explain and be judged.

FAQs

How can I use "on the hook" in a sentence?

You can use "on the hook" to describe someone who is responsible for something, especially something difficult or unpleasant. For example, "The CEO is "held accountable" for the company's poor performance, leaving her "on the hook" for finding a solution".

What does it mean to be "on the hook" for something?

Being "on the hook" means being responsible or liable for something, often a debt or a mistake. It implies a sense of obligation or potential negative consequences if the responsibility is not met.

Which is correct, "on the hook" or "off the hook"?

"On the hook" means responsible or liable, while "off the hook" means free from responsibility or obligation. They are opposites, so the correct choice depends on the intended meaning.

What are some alternatives to saying someone is "on the hook"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "liable", "responsible", or "held accountable". These phrases convey a similar sense of obligation or accountability.