# poke holes in

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/poke-holes-in
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To criticize someone by finding flaws or weaknesses in their work or to criticize something by demonstrating that it is not correct.

## Examples

- The teacher poked holes in my weak argument.
- During the meeting, the manager poked holes in the new project plan, forcing the team to start over.
- The defense attorney skillfully poked holes in the witness's testimony, casting significant doubt on the entire case presented by the prosecution.

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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.