The spelling of the phrase "ducks and drakes" can be confusing due to its irregularity. The IPA phonetic transcription helps to break down the sounds in the word, representing it as /dʌks/ and /dreɪks/. The word "ducks" features a pronounced /ʌ/ sound, similar to the "u" in "hut," while "drakes" features a diphthong with the /eɪ/ sound, as in "hay." Despite its unusual spelling, "ducks and drakes" is a common idiom for a frivolous, careless attitude towards money or other resources.
"Ducks and drakes" is an idiomatic phrase referring to a game or a pastime where flat stones are thrown in a way that they skip across the surface of a body of water. This phrase is typically used in the context of recreational activities by the water, such as at a beach or a lake, where the stones are thrown with a flick of the wrist in order to make them bounce multiple times on the water before sinking.
Derived from the behavior of ducks or other waterfowl which skillfully skim across the water, the term "ducks and drakes" has come to symbolize the playful and carefree nature of this particular leisure activity.
However, "ducks and drakes" has also been adopted figuratively to describe a frivolous or careless squandering of resources or opportunities. In this sense, it refers to the wastefulness or thoughtlessness demonstrated in the management of finances, time, or other valuable assets; similar to throwing valuable stones away instead of using them wisely.
The phrase may also be used to express recklessness or the act of taking unnecessary risks without considering the potential consequences. It suggests a lack of prudence or discretion in decision-making.
Overall, "ducks and drakes" represents a playful recreational activity on the surface, and simultaneously, a metaphor for wastefulness and imprudent behavior when used figuratively.