# have someone on toast

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/have-someone-on-toast
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To have somebody in one's power, or in a compromising or helpless position.

## Examples

- I have him on toast now that I know his secret.
- With all the evidence gathered against the corrupt manager, the investigators finally had him on toast.
- Once the detective discovered the hidden ledger, he realized he had the suspect on toast and could force a full confession.

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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.