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Off the Hook


Meaning of the phrase 'Off the Hook': When you are freed from an obligation, you’re said to be ‘off the hook.’

Example of Use: "You're lucky; it turns out that Dad never heard you come in late last night." Answer: "Great, that means I'm off the hook!"


Interesting fact about Off the Hook

The origin of the idiom 'off the hook' can be found in fishing; a fish on the hook has been caught and is considered to be out of options; it’s trapped unless it is released. Just like a fish off the hook, someone who’s “off the hook” has been released from obligations or commitments.