The phrase "doing a number on" is an idiomatic expression that is chiefly used in informal situations. It refers to the act of causing significant harm, damage, or negative effects on someone or something, often intentionally or with great effectiveness.
This expression can be applied to various scenarios, but it is commonly used figuratively when describing emotions, relationships, or physical conditions. For instance, it can describe a situation where someone's hurtful words or actions have deeply affected another person's emotions or self-esteem. In this context, "doing a number on" signifies inflicting emotional or psychological harm.
In relationships, "doing a number on" can refer to someone's ability to manipulate, deceive, or betray another person, causing emotional distress and often leading to the end of the relationship. It can also describe the act of severely damaging or undermining trust between individuals.
Furthermore, in a physical sense, "doing a number on" can describe an intense or debilitating impact on someone's health or physical condition. It implies that a certain situation, such as an illness, injury, or fatigue, has taken a toll on a person's well-being or functioning.
Overall, "doing a number on" conveys the idea of causing substantial negative impact or damage, whether emotional, psychological, relational, or physical, often with profound efficiency or effectiveness.
