Be on the fiddle

Pro Tip 1/3

British Origin

This phrase is more common in British English than American English, so it's useful to know if you're speaking with Brits.

When I worked in London, I heard a coworker say another was on the fiddle.

Pro Tip 2/3

Negative Connotation

The phrase has a negative tone and implies disapproval, so use it in contexts where dishonesty is frowned upon.

He bought a car that turned out to be on the fiddle - it was stolen!

Pro Tip 3/3

Informal

It's an informal idiom, so it's best used in casual conversation, not in formal writing like business or academic papers.

I wouldn't trust her, she’s known to be on the fiddle.