the devil to pay
US /ðə ˈdɛvəl tə peɪ/
UK /ðə ˈdɛvəl tə peɪ/
1.
serious trouble or severe consequences to face as a result of an action
:
•
If you break that vase, there will be the devil to pay.
•
She knew there would be the devil to pay if she didn't finish her report on time.