make free with something

make free with (someone or something)

To exploit or take liberties with someone or something; to treat someone or something without much care or tact. Why does it seem like everyone in the office makes free with the food in the fridge? It's clearly labeled! Most historical films make free with the facts in order to simplify the narrative. Please don't make free with the interns by making them get you coffee all day.See also: free, make

make free with something

(disapproving) use something a lot, even though it does not belong to you: I think he’ll have something to say about you making free with all his things while he’s away.See also: free, make, something