"Beats the rap" is a colloquial expression meaning someone has avoided punishment or gotten away with a crime. There are various synonyms for the phrase, including "escapes justice," "dodges a bullet," "gets off scot-free," "slips through the cracks," and "eludes prosecution." These phrases imply that the individual has cleverly outwitted the authorities or legal system, either by avoiding detection or manipulating the system. The use of such language often highlights a sense of frustration or indignation at the perceived failure of justice, whilst also acknowledging the cleverness of the individual who was able to avoid punishment.