put it to

1. Blame on, as in They didn't know who broke the window so they put it to Sam .

2. Present something in a forceful, candid manner to someone, as in I can't put it to you any more clearly—stay away from the electrical equipment .

3. Take unfair advantage, cheat, as in That used-car dealer really put it to Betty .

4. Present for consideration, as in Let's put it to a vote , or I put it to you, I did the best I could under the circumstances . [Mid-1700s]

5. Overburden with tasks or work, as in They really put it to him, expecting to do all the packing .