Mete out Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To give or deliver something such as punishment, justice, or treatment, usually in an official or forceful way.
Usage & Nuances
'Mete out' is most often used with negative nouns like 'punishment', 'justice', or 'discipline'. It's somewhat formal and rarely used in everyday casual talk. Do not use it for positive things (e.g., 'mete out praise' sounds odd).
Example Sentences
The judge meted out a strict sentence for the crime.
basic
Schools sometimes mete out punishment for bad behavior.
basic
The coach meted out strict discipline to the team.
basic
They were shocked by the harsh punishment meted out for such a minor mistake.
natural
The principal didn’t hesitate to mete out consequences to those who broke the rules.
natural
Sometimes the law fails, and people try to mete out their own justice.
natural