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reckoning

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Dutch reckoning

obsolete A bill or other account of charges that is not itemized or detailed in any way and that is usually irregularly high. The disparaging use of the word "Dutch" is a reference to the fierce rivalry between England and the Dutch in the 17th century. At the end of our stay in the country hotel, we were a little nonplussed at the Dutch reckoning with which we were presented by the concierge.

See also: Dutch, reckoning

reckon without (one's) host

To plan without taking into account all the necessary or important factors or people. It was originally used to describe one who did not consult one's host, such as an innkeeper, when calculating one's lodging expenses. A: "You made plans for Mother's Day without even asking your mom what she wants to do?" B: "I know, I really reckoned without my host on that one."

See also: reckon, without

Short reckonings make long friends.

Prov. If you borrow something from a friend, pay it back as soon as possible so that the two of you remain friendly. Now that you've finished using Bert's saw, take it right back to him. Short reckonings make long friends.

See also: friend, long, make, reckoning, short

day of reckoning

a time when something must be dealt with Taking out another loan to cover your debts will only postpone the day of reckoning.

Etymology: based on the Biblical day of reckoning ( the day when God will judge everyone)

See also: of, reckoning

the day of reckoning

the time when an unpleasant situation has to be dealt with, or the time when you are punished or criticized for the things you have done wrong

Usage notes: In the Bible, the day of reckoning is the day at the end of the world when God will judge everyone.

Taking out a further loan to cover your debts will only postpone the day of reckoning.

See call it a day, carry the day, name the day, save the day, seize the day, win the day

See also: of, reckoning