Beat the living daylights out of Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To hit or attack someone very violently, usually as an exaggeration or a threat. It's a strong informal expression meaning to severely hurt someone physically.
Usage & Nuances
This is a very informal and strong expression, usually used in threats or exaggerated stories, not in polite conversation. Often said in anger or jokingly, not literal. Collocates with 'someone' as in 'beat the living daylights out of him.' Avoid in formal writing.
Example Sentences
If you touch my bike again, I'll beat the living daylights out of you.
basic
The bully tried to beat the living daylights out of the smaller kid.
basic
They threatened to beat the living daylights out of anyone who told the secret.
basic
When Mark lost his temper, he looked like he could beat the living daylights out of someone.
natural
You should've seen the game—one team just beat the living daylights out of the other!
natural
Don't worry, he's just joking. He wouldn't really beat the living daylights out of anybody.
natural