three strikes

/θri straɪks/

phrase★Intermediate— a rule where a third offense leads to severe punishment◆idiom

◆ What It Really Means

A legal principle where a third serious crime leads to extreme punishment, symbolizing the finality of repeated offenses.

¶ Literal Meaning

Three counts of striking out in baseball.

Literal Breakdown

threethe number three+strikesa baseball term for a failed attempt to hit the ball

◇ Mental Image

A baseball game where three strikes result in an out, metaphorically representing the finality of repeated legal offenses.

◈ When to Use

A judge explaining to a defendant why they are being sentenced to life imprisonment under the three-strikes law.

◉ Cultural Note

The term originates from baseball terminology and was popularized in U.S. legal systems in the 1990s to deter repeat offenders.

⚖️Law

formal

A legal rule where a person convicted of three serious crimes receives a much harsher penalty, often a mandatory life sentence.

The judge sentenced him to life in prison under the three-strikes law.

This illustrates how the rule enforces severe penalties for repeat offenders.

💡

Originated in U.S. criminal law, particularly in California.

Synonyms

a count against someone in baseball or legal contexts

This phrase is specific to legal systems, particularly in the U.S., where it applies to repeat offenders.

Use only in legal discussions; avoid in casual conversation.

Derived from baseball terminology, where three strikes result in an out. Adopted into legal systems to emphasize the finality of repeated offenses.

Primarily used in legal contexts, especially in discussions about criminal justice reform.

three

the number of offenses

root

strikes

counts against someone, derived from baseball

root

English Dictionary