Example
“Cheating vulnerable customers is beyond the pale, whatever the profit.”
Dictionary details
Related idioms
Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.
up to no good
CEFR B1engaged in behavior that is mischievous, dishonest, or otherwise wrong
fair game
CEFR B2a person or thing considered an acceptable target for pursuit or criticism
hold the line
CEFR B2to maintain a position, decision, or principle despite pressure
no holds barred
CEFR B2With no limits or restrictions on how a contest, argument, or conflict is conducted.
fall foul of
CEFR C1to get into trouble with someone or break a rule or law
not cricket
CEFR C1unfair, dishonorable, or contrary to accepted standards of behavior
Source methodology
Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.