What does “Rip (someone) off” mean?
The phrase "Rip (someone) off" means to overcharge someone. When someone uses this phrase, they are describing a situation where they feel cheated or taken advantage of by being charged an exorbitant amount of money for a product or service. It implies that the person who charged them significantly more than what is fair or reasonable.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
The mechanic totally ripped me off by charging double the actual price.
Example
Don't buy that product from them, they'll rip you off with their high prices.
Example
I feel like the taxi driver ripped me off by taking a longer route.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing being overcharged or cheated by someone
The mechanic totally ripped me off by charging double the actual price.
Don't buy that product from them, they'll rip you off with their high prices.
- 2Expressing feeling cheated or taken advantage of
I feel like the taxi driver ripped me off by taking a longer route.
They ripped me off with their poor quality service.
- 3Discussing instances of being swindled or defrauded
He got ripped off when he bought that fake designer bag.
She was ripped off by a fraudulent investment scheme.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "rip (someone) off" is believed to have originated in the United States. It gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s and has since become a common expression in English.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "rip (someone) off" is typically used within a sentence to describe an instance of being overcharged or cheated. It is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "rip (someone) off" is not offensive in itself. It is a slang term used to describe being overcharged or cheated.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "rip (someone) off" is commonly used by English speakers, particularly in the United States. It is understood by a wide range of audiences, but may be more prevalent among younger generations and those familiar with slang.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
While the phrase "rip (someone) off" originated in the United States, it is now used in various English-speaking regions around the world. It is not specific to a particular accent or region.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
- undercharge
- give a discount
- offer a fair price
- not rip off
- charge a reasonable amount
