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Meaning of 'Read someone the riot act'

What does the saying 'Read someone the riot act' mean?

Idiom: Read someone the riot act

Meaning:

If you read someone the riot act, you give them a clear warning that if they don't stop doing something, they will be in serious trouble.
Country: International English | Subject Area: Law | Usage Type: Both or All Words Used
All idioms have been editorially reviewed. Submitted idioms may have been edited for correctness and completeness.
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