What does “Get the Third Degree” mean?
"Get the Third Degree" means to be questioned intensely or rigorously.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After the robbery, the suspect was getting the third degree from the police.
Example
During the job interview, the candidate was given the third degree about their previous work experience.
Example
The witness was getting the third degree on the witness stand during the trial
Is “Get the Third Degree” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Get the Third Degree” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Get the Third Degree” effectively in context?
You can use "Get the Third Degree" to describe a situation where someone is being questioned intensely or rigorously. It often implies a high level of scrutiny and pressure. For example, if a friend tells you about a difficult interview, you might say, 'Sounds like they really gave you the third degree!'
- 1Police Interrogation
After the robbery, the suspect was getting the third degree from the police.
- 2Job Interview
During the job interview, the candidate was given the third degree about their previous work experience.
- 3Legal Proceedings
The witness was getting the third degree on the witness stand during the trial.
Similar phrases to “Get the Third Degree”:
Cross-examine
To question a witness or defendant in a court of law to challenge their testimony or credibility
Example
The defense attorney cross-examined the witness to cast doubt on their version of events.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Get the Third Degree” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Get the Third Degree" is unknown.
Is “Get the Third Degree” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Get the Third Degree" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where someone is being questioned intensely or rigorously.
What tone does “Get the Third Degree” have?
"Get the Third Degree" conveys a tone of scrutiny and pressure. It suggests a thorough and rigorous questioning process that may be uncomfortable or challenging for the person being questioned.
Can “Get the Third Degree” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Get the Third Degree" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes an intense questioning process. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as discussions about legal proceedings or investigative interviews.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The suspect was getting the third degree from the police.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He was really "getting the third degree"!' to imply intense questioning.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- interrogate
- probe
- grill
- question intensely
- inquire thoroughly
Antonyms
- give a pass
- accept at face value
- take someone's word for it
- trust without question
