Tom loved teasing his friends at school. Every day, he would make fun of their hairstyles, clothes, or even the way they spoke. Everyone laughed—except Tom. One day, Sarah decided to tease Tom back, joking about his messy backpack. Tom’s face turned red. He shouted, “Hey, that’s not funny!” His friends laughed and said, “Wow, Tom! You dish it out but can’t take it!” Tom realized he shouldn’t make fun of others if he couldn’t handle it himself. From that day on, he learned to be kinder—and more careful with jokes. Dish it out but can’t take it” This phrase is used to describe someone who is quick to criticize, tease, or make fun of others but becomes upset or defensive when the same is done to them. More examples: He’s always making jokes about everyone’s mistakes, but he can’t take it when someone teases him. He really dishes it out but can’t take it. Don’t be like her—she dishes it out but can’t take it. Dish it out → To criticize or tease others Can’t take it → Cannot handle being criticized or teased in return