settle a score

Idioms and Phrases

Also, settle or wipe out an old score or scores . Get even, avenge a grievance or an injury. For example, Wendy settled an old score with Bill when she made him wait for half an hour in the rain . These expressions, dating from the mid-1800s to early 1900s, all use score in the sense of “an account” or “bill.” Also see pay off , def. 3.

Example Sentences

And now he might want to settle a score with his rival.

From BBC

It would also show Mr. Trump, in his own voice, invoking a sensitive government document to settle a score.

From New York Times

The motives can be to grab land, to ostracize a woman to settle a score, or to justify violence.

From New York Times

Liverpool have been looking to settle a score with Real since the 2018 Champions League final defeat in Kyiv - Salah's injury after a tangle with Sergio Ramos a lingering source of bitterness - but this is a hurdle they struggle to overcome, having lost to the Spaniards in the quarter-final in 2021 and in last season's final.

From BBC

Mr. Fischoeder, the eccentric landlord, has decided to settle a score with his brother by writing a play called “Hamlet, But Good This Time,” which he enlists the Belchers to stage and star in; Linda is thrilled, Bob is anxious and Louise would rather learn how to sharpen knives.

From New York Times

Related Words

• pay back
• repay