betide

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.

A certain life was expected for you, and woe betide you if you went outside of that.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 23, 2024

And woe betide any member of the cabinet who upset his mistress.

From BBC • Feb. 24, 2023

Woe betide the grounds passholder who shows up at the “wrong” entrance; you may be made to walk several blocks, though several on Monday attempted to argue with U.N. police.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 19, 2022

“Woe betide those who clapped him as a saint.”

From Washington Post • Aug. 20, 2019

Etymologically, “invective” is a cavalry charge, and when Cicero hit a gallop, woe betide whoever was in the way.

From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith