Drop a dime Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To secretly tell the police or authorities about someone's illegal activities, often used for reporting a crime.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and slightly old-fashioned, originally from the time when payphones required a dime for a call. Most common in American English, especially in crime or police contexts. Similar to 'snitch' or 'rat on' but slightly less harsh. Not about casual information—only about informing authorities.
Example Sentences
He decided to drop a dime on his neighbor because of the loud parties.
basic
Someone dropped a dime on the thieves, so they were arrested.
basic
If you drop a dime on a criminal, you might help solve a case.
basic
He was scared to drop a dime because he didn’t want any trouble.
natural
After seeing the robbery, she decided to drop a dime without giving her name.
natural
Lots of people don’t want to drop a dime because they fear retaliation.
natural