How to Pronounce "a pound of flesh"
expression
uh POWND uhv FLESH
uh POWND ov FLESH
Definition
If someone demands 'a pound of flesh,' they want strict payment or revenge, even if it causes harm or is unfair. The phrase comes from Shakespeare's play The Merchant of Venice.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈpaʊnd/ /ˈəv/ /ˈfɫɛʃ
British English
æɪ/ /pˈaʊnd/ /ˈɒv/ /flˈɛʃ
Simplified Pronunciation
US
uh POWND uhv FLESH
UK
uh POWND ov FLESH
Listen in Context
The company demanded a pound of flesh from its workers when times were tough.
When she didn't pay on time, the lender wanted a pound of flesh.
He insisted on a pound of flesh after the contract was broken.
If you agree to those terms, don't be surprised when they come for a pound of flesh later.