catch (one) with (someone or something)
(redirected from catch me with)catch (one) with (someone or something)
1. To find, and perhaps apprehend, one in possession of something suspicious. If they catch us with the other team's mascot, they'll think we stole it! The jewel thief was caught with the necklace hidden inside his shoe. Ugh, I caught my sister with my brand-new clothes again! Why does she act like my closet is just an extension of her closet?
2. To apprehend one by using a particular device or method. The police seem confident that they'll be able to catch the escaped convicts with helicopters and dogs. The rancher was able to catch the stray cow with a rope. Whoa, I can't believe you caught the robber using a bow and arrow!
3. To find one with someone else, usually in the midst of an illicit activity. Police caught the suspect with known mobsters. Don't let me catch you with Dean again. I told you he's trouble. I know your boyfriend just stashed the necklace here, but if the police catch you with it, they'll think you stole it!
See also: catch
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
catch someone with something
1. to discover or apprehend someone with something—usually something stolen or illicit. They caught Elizabeth with the earrings she shoplifted. Don't let them catch you with the money!
2. to apprehend someone with the aid of something. The state trooper caught the speeder with radar. The cops caught Lefty with the help of an informer.
See also: catch
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.