"Doing a number on" is an idiomatic expression that originated in colloquial English. Its meaning can vary slightly depending on the context in which it is used, but generally, it refers to the act of causing significant damage, harm, or negative effects on someone or something. It often implies that the impact or consequences are severe, extensive, or long-lasting.
In some cases, "doing a number on" can be used to describe emotional or psychological damage inflicted on a person, such as undermining their confidence, self-esteem, or emotional well-being. For instance, if someone goes through a traumatic experience that leaves them mentally scarred, one might say that the event "did a number on" their psyche.
Moreover, the expression can also encompass physical damage or harm caused to an object, place, or infrastructure. For instance, if an earthquake shakes a city and leaves buildings in ruins, it can be said that the quake "did a number on" the affected area.
Overall, "doing a number on" is a vivid and figurative way of expressing the extent or severity of damage or harm that has been done. The phrase's origin is not entirely clear, but it has become a widely recognized and used expression in informal conversation and popular culture.
