Synonyms

settle a score

Idioms

Also,. Get even, avenge a grievance or an injury. For example, Wendy settled an old score with Bill when she made him wait for half an hour in the rain. These expressions, dating from the mid-1800s to early 1900s, all use score in the sense of “an account” or “bill.” Also see pay off, def. 3.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

And now he might want to settle a score with his rival.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2024

It would also show Mr. Trump, in his own voice, invoking a sensitive government document to settle a score.

From New York Times • Jun. 1, 2023

The feisty donkey in Mexico that was locked up to settle a score.

From Salon • Sep. 18, 2021

Early on she claims that Jong-su once called her ugly when they were younger, and you might wonder if she’s trying to settle a score.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 29, 2018

It allows one to settle a score, to work out aggressive feelings, without either mental or physical harm.

From The Dueling Machine by Bova, Ben

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

settle a score

Example Sentences

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