# get the goods on

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/get-the-goods-on
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To acquire knowledge or develop evidence that reveals the truth about someone's character or behavior, especially criminal behavior.

## Examples

- The detective wants to get the goods on the thief.
- The reporter spent months investigating the company to get the goods on their corrupt manager.
- By meticulously tracking the politician's secret financial records, the journalist finally managed to get the goods on him, exposing his long history of bribery.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.