‘绳之以法’ is a formal, literary idiom meaning ‘to bring someone to justice’ or ‘to deal with someone according to the law’. Literally, it breaks down as: 绳 (shéng) means ‘to bind’ or ‘to restrain’, often used metaphorically for ‘holding accountable’; 之 (zhī) is a pronoun meaning ‘him/her/it’; 以 (yǐ) is a preposition meaning ‘by means of’ or ‘with’; and 法 (fǎ) means ‘law’ or ‘legal system’. Together, the phrase evokes the image of binding a wrongdoer with the law — that is, subjecting them to legal consequences.

This expression is commonly used in news reports, official statements, judicial contexts, and formal writing. It implies that wrongdoing has been confirmed and that lawful punishment or due process will follow. While powerful and concise, it is rarely used in casual speech — it carries weight and seriousness, often appearing after evidence has been gathered or a verdict reached.