off the hook
Meaning
No longer responsible, blamed, or in trouble; released from an obligation or consequence.
Origin
From fishing: a fish that slips off the hook escapes capture. By metaphor, a person who is “off the hook” escapes blame, punishment, or a duty.
Notes
Often conveys relief at escaping blame/duty; can also imply someone got away too easily. Common in speech and informal writing; also acceptable in news/business contexts.
Examples
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The judge let him off the hook after new evidence proved he was innocent.
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If you cover for her again, you’re not getting off the hook so easily next time.
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We missed the deadline, and the client made it clear we weren’t off the hook yet.
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Thanks for picking up my shift—I thought I was off the hook, but my manager still asked me to come in.
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Don’t think you’re off the hook just because you apologized; you still need to fix what you broke.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used with forms of “be” (is/was/will be off the hook) or “get” (got/get off the hook). Often followed by for + noun/gerund (off the hook for missing it). Fixed phrase; article typically not used.
Synonyms
- let off
- in the clear
- off the line
- free of responsibility
- get away with it
Antonyms
- on the hook
- held responsible
- to blame
- liable