[Idiom] DROP A DIME. - Discussing Expressions for Reporting Misdeeds
Drop a dime.
Inform on someone.
'Drop a dime' is a slang phrase that historically refers to dropping a dime into a payphone to call the police or authorities on someone. Today, it generally means to inform on someone's wrongdoing or illegal activities. The phrase encapsulates the act of betrayal or whistle-blowing in a vivid, albeit outdated, technological reference.
Example Sentences
He decided to drop a dime on the crime happening in his neighborhood.
He decided to inform the authorities about the crime in his neighborhood.
Someone dropped a dime on the illegal activities, leading to multiple arrests.
Someone reported the illegal activities, leading to several arrests.
After much hesitation, she dropped a dime and informed the authorities.
After a lot of hesitation, she informed the authorities.