The phrase "gave someone her walking papers" means to dismiss or fire someone from their job. The spelling of the phrase can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Gave" is spelled /ɡeɪv/ while "someone" is spelled /ˈsʌmwʌn/. "Her" is spelled /hɜːr/, and "walking" is spelled /ˈwɔːkɪŋ/. Lastly, "papers" is spelled /ˈpeɪpərz/. When pronounced together, the phrase is a concise way of describing the act of terminating someone's employment.
"Gave someone her walking papers" is an idiomatic expression often used to describe the act of dismissing or terminating someone from their employment. The phrase is rooted in the tradition of written notices given to employees to inform them of their job termination, which in earlier times were simply called "walking papers." The phrase suggests that the individual being let go had their employment contract ended abruptly and is now being asked to leave the workplace.
This expression conveys the notion of officially severing ties with an employee due to various reasons such as poor performance, company restructuring, downsizing, or disciplinary actions. By giving someone their walking papers, it implies that their presence is no longer desired or valued within the organization.
The phrase holds a formal and often negative connotation, indicating a definitive end to the working relationship between the employer and the individual. It may suggest that there were no attempts made to salvage the connection or offer an opportunity for improvement, and the dismissal decision was final.
Overall, "gave someone her walking papers" communicates the act of terminating someone's employment contract, suggesting an immediate and permanent separation, usually due to negative circumstances or decisions made by the employer.