[Idiom] THROW BOOK AT. - Explore the Extremes of Legal Punishment

Punish as severely as possible.

To "throw the book at someone" means to give the maximum punishment permitted. In a metaphorical sense, it’s as if a judge throws a lawbook at a defendant, symbolizing the imposition of every possible charge and penalty.

Example Sentences

1. The judge decided to throw the book at the offender for repeated crimes.

   It conveys that the judge imposed the maximum possible punishment on a repeat offender.

2. They'll throw the book at anyone caught stealing.

   This implies that strict, severe penalties await those caught in the act of theft.

3. If he's found guilty, the prosecutor is going to throw the book at him.

   It suggests that, upon conviction, the prosecutor intends to pursue the sternest penalties available.