How Do You Spell GIVE SOMEONE THE THIRD DEGREE?

Pronunciation: [ɡˈɪv sˈʌmwɒn ðə θˈɜːd dɪɡɹˈiː] (IPA)

The phrase "give someone the third degree" means to question or interrogate someone thoroughly. The spelling of this idiom is straightforward: "give" is spelled /ɡɪv/, while "third degree" is pronounced /θərd dɪˈɡriː/. The word "degree" is spelled with an "ee" at the end, as opposed to "degre," in order to represent the long "e" sound in phonetic transcription. This phrase likely originated from the police force's use of third-degree tactics in interrogations, which were considered particularly harsh.

GIVE SOMEONE THE THIRD DEGREE Meaning and Definition

1. To give someone the third degree is an idiomatic expression that originated from the realm of police interrogation. This phrase refers to an intense and persistent questioning or grilling of an individual, often to extract information, uncover the truth, or probe into their motives or actions. The interrogation is usually characterized by a series of probing, pointed, and relentless questions that leave no room for evasion or dishonesty.

   When someone is given the third degree, it implies subjecting them to an intense scrutiny, interrogation, or cross-examination. This process involves interrogators applying maximum pressure to get the person to confess or reveal the desired information by making them feel uncomfortable, uneasy, or overwhelmed.

   The term metaphorically draws a parallel between the intensity of the questioning and the three degrees of Freemasonry, specifically referring to the most intense, arduous, and thorough examination faced by the highest-ranking Masons.

   In popular usage, "giving someone the third degree" has expanded beyond police or legal contexts and now encompasses any situation where someone is subjected to intense scrutiny, aggressive questioning, or relentless scrutiny from an authoritative figure or inquisitive party. The phrase often implies a level of persistence and thoroughness that could be considered excessive or invasive.

Common Misspellings for GIVE SOMEONE THE THIRD DEGREE

• five someone the third degree
• vive someone the third degree
• bive someone the third degree
• hive someone the third degree
• yive someone the third degree
• tive someone the third degree
• guve someone the third degree
• gjve someone the third degree
• gkve someone the third degree
• gove someone the third degree
• g9ve someone the third degree
• g8ve someone the third degree
• gice someone the third degree
• gibe someone the third degree
• gige someone the third degree
• gife someone the third degree
• givw someone the third degree
• givs someone the third degree
• givd someone the third degree
• givr someone the third degree