The phrase "gives his or her walking papers" means to dismiss someone from their job or position. The phonetic transcription of this phrase is /ɡɪvz hɪz ɔr hɜr ˈwɔkɪŋ ˈpeɪpərz/. The "g" in "gives" is pronounced with a hard "g" sound, while the "s" at the end is pronounced as a "z". The "i" in "his" and "her" is pronounced as a short vowel sound. "Walking" is pronounced with the emphasis on the first syllable and the "lk" blend pronounced as a "k". Finally, "papers" is pronounced with the emphasis on the first syllable and the "rs" blend pronounced as a "z".
The phrase "gives his or her walking papers" is an idiomatic expression typically used in informal contexts. When someone is said to receive or be given their walking papers, it means they have been fired or dismissed from their job or position. This phrase is often used to imply that the person's departure was abrupt, unexpected, or unwanted.
The origin of this expression can be traced back to the mid-19th century when employees were often given a written notice called "walking papers" to signify the termination of their employment. These documents would instruct them to leave the workplace immediately, thus the term "walking papers" came into use. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass any form of termination.
Using "gives his or her walking papers" in a sentence signifies a formal or practical way of conveying the end of employment. It suggests that the person has been let go or laid off, and further implies that their services or presence are no longer required or desired. The phrase also conveys a sense of finality and suggests that the employee is compelled to leave immediately. It is commonly employed in colloquial or informal conversations to depict the sudden end of a job or a person being let go.