pound of flesh

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pound of flesh" is a common idiom in written English.
It is often used to describe an unjustly harsh or excessive penalty for some wrongdoing. For example, you might say: "The lawyer demanded a pound of flesh for his services, even though his client could not afford it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"They've already gotten their pound of flesh," Mr. Schumer said.

The New York Times

Instead he demanded a pound of flesh.

The New York Times

Now, both want their pound of flesh.

The Economist

And Congress wants its pound of flesh.

The Guardian - Tech

Every job exacts its pound of flesh".

The New Yorker

He had to get his pound of flesh.

The New York Times - Magazine

First, however, he will extract his pound of flesh.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"I think it would be acceptable for a pound of flesh to be extracted.

The Guardian - Film

The Department of Financial Services in New York took their pound of flesh a settlement of six hundred and thirty million dollars.

The New Yorker

Hopefully, the pound-of-flesh season will be abbreviated by a successful litigation season.

Huffington Post

The pound-of-flesh season will get in full swing as the non-graduation season begins.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pound of flesh" to describe situations where someone is demanding something to which they feel entitled, even if it causes significant hardship to others. Ensure the context involves a sense of mercilessness or excessive retribution.

Common error

Avoid using "pound of flesh" in contexts that refer to literal amounts or physical harm. The phrase is idiomatic and should only be used to describe demands for retribution or repayment that are considered excessive or cruel.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pound of flesh" functions as a noun phrase that acts as an idiomatic expression. It represents something owed that is extracted mercilessly, often causing pain or suffering to the one who must provide it. Ludwig AI confirms its idiomatic nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "pound of flesh" is a common expression used to describe the act of demanding strict retribution, even if it causes significant hardship to the other party. Deriving from Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice, it’s grammatically sound and functions as a noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI and the examples provided, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts. While originating in literature, its contemporary application spans a range of scenarios where merciless demands are made. Be mindful of its idiomatic nature and avoid literal interpretations to ensure accurate usage. Alternatives such as "exacting retribution" can be used to convey similar meanings in different contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demanding one's pound of flesh

Emphasizes the act of demanding something that is owed, even if it causes suffering to the other party.

exacting retribution

Focuses on the act of taking revenge or inflicting punishment, highlighting the retributive aspect.

extracting a high price

Focuses on the act of obtaining something valuable or significant, often at a considerable cost to the other party.

holding someone accountable to the fullest extent

Highlights the demand that someone be responsible for their actions and face all possible consequences.

taking a heavy toll

Focuses on the significant negative impact or cost associated with something.

imposing harsh penalties

Emphasizes the act of enforcing severe punishments for wrongdoing.

insisting on full payment

Highlights the financial aspect of demanding what is owed, even if it is difficult for the debtor to pay.

demanding strict compliance

Highlights the insistence on following rules or agreements precisely, often without leniency.

getting even

Focuses on achieving a state of balance after being wronged, often implying a desire for revenge.

seeking revenge

Emphasizes the active pursuit of retaliation for a perceived wrong.

FAQs

What does it mean to demand a "pound of flesh"?

To demand a "pound of flesh" means to insist on repayment of a debt or obligation even if the repayment will cause significant hardship or suffering to the person who owes it. It implies a lack of mercy or compassion.

Where does the phrase "pound of flesh" come from?

The phrase originates from Shakespeare's play The Merchant of Venice, where Shylock demands a pound of Antonio's flesh as collateral for a loan.

What are some alternatives to saying "pound of flesh"?

You can use alternatives like "exacting retribution", "demanding strict compliance", or "extracting a high price" depending on the context.

How can I use "pound of flesh" in a sentence?

Example: "After the company's failure, the investors wanted their "pound of flesh" and sued the CEO for mismanagement."