english
1
general::
Phrase(s): chapter and verse Fig. very specifically detailed, in reference to sources of information. (A reference to the method of referring to biblical text.) • He gave chapter and verse for his reasons for disputing that Shakespeare had written the play. • The suspect gave chapter and verse of his associate’s activities.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
The precise authority backing up a statement or view; established rules for or detailed information about something. For example, You can't withdraw a card after you've played it; I'll cite you the rules, chapter and verse. The term alludes to the chapter and verse of a quotation from the Bible, long regarded as an ultimate authority. [Early 1600s]
American Heritage Idioms