Somebody wouldn’t be seen/caught dead… Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Strong Dislike Use the phrase to express strong negative feelings toward something. He wouldn't be seen dead at a cheap fast-food restaurant. Pro Tip 2/3Hyperbolic Expression It's an exaggeration; not to be taken literally, but emphasizes the intensity of the dislike. She wouldn't be caught dead in a second-hand store. Pro Tip 3/3Informal Context The phrase is informal, more suitable for casual conversations than formal writing. My cousin wouldn't be seen dead at a karaoke bar.