The phrase "gives one the business" is a colloquial expression meaning to give someone a hard time or to aggressively confront them. Although the phrase's origins are unclear, it is thought to have emerged in the US in the early 1900s. The spelling of this phrase conforms to standard English pronunciation rules. The IPA transcription is /ˈɡɪvz wʌn ðə ˈbɪznəs/, with a hard "g" sound in "gives," followed by the vowel sound "uh" in "one," and the "z" sound in "business."
"Gives one the business" is an idiomatic expression used in informal language to describe a situation when someone is subjected to harsh criticism, a scolding, or a thorough reprimand. This phrase is often employed to describe an intense confrontation or an encounter where one person strongly and relentlessly expresses their disapproval, dissatisfaction, or anger towards another person.
The phrase originated from the business world where "giving someone the business" initially referred to an intense interrogation or pressure exerted upon an individual during negotiations, meetings, or important discussions. Over time, the term has expanded beyond its business context and now commonly describes any situation characterized by fierce and unforgiving criticism.
When someone "gives one the business," the tone is usually assertive, relentless, and may involve aggressive questioning or confrontational remarks. The act of "giving the business" typically involves addressing someone's mistakes, shortcomings, or inappropriate behavior in a direct and forceful manner. The intention behind this phrase is to leave a lasting impact on the recipient, potentially causing them to reflect upon their actions or prompting them to change their behavior.
While "giving one the business" can be seen as harsh or unpleasant, it often highlights the seriousness of the situation or the gravity of the inadequacies being addressed. This phrase emphasizes the intensity and thoroughness of the critique, serving as a warning or an opportunity for improvement.