be in sb's black books

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase be in sb's black books, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression be in sb's black books used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "be in sb's black books"

Meaning

The idiom 'be in sb's black books' is used to describe a situation in which someone doesn't agree or approve of a person's actions, or has a feeling of disapproval towards them. It is used as a warning or threat to act or behave in a certain way otherwise there will be consequences. The phrase can be taken figuratively, or literally, to convey a sense of someone's displeasure with another person's behavior.

Etymology

The phrase 'be in sb's black books' is an idiom derived from the ancient bookkeeping system. In the bookkeeping system, black books were used to keep records of bad debts, which would be written in black ink. This system gave rise to the phrase 'be in sb's black books', which means to be in a state of disfavor or out of favor with someone.

Usage

The phrase 'be in sb's black books' is often used to warn someone against doing something that could result in negative consequences. It is a phrase that is used in both informal and formal contexts. For example, a boss may say to their employee "If you don't do what I ask, you'll be in my black books". This phrase can also be used as a joke, when talking about someone's behavior or attitude. For instance, a parent might joke with their child and say "You'd better behave or you'll be in my black books".

Example Sentences

• "If you're late for work one more time, you'll be in my black books."
• "You'd better be nice to me, or you'll be in my black books!"
• "My mom threatened that I'd be in her black books if I didn't clean my room."
• "I'm already in my dad's black books for forgetting to do my chores."

Beyond the Literal: Figurative Language in Idioms

Idioms often use figurative language to convey a message that is not meant to be taken literally. For instance, the idiom "bite the bullet" means to endure a painful or difficult situation without complaint, while "hold your horses" means to be patient and wait. Other idioms, like "kick the bucket" or "pop your clogs," use euphemisms to talk about death.