The spelling of the phrase "gotten out from under" may seem unusual to some English learners. However, it follows the common American English pattern of past participles formed with "got" instead of "gotten." The "t" after "got" is often pronounced as a glottal stop, represented in IPA as /ʔ/. Additionally, the word "under" is pronounced with a schwa sound for the second syllable, represented in IPA as /ˈʌndər/. Therefore, the correct pronunciation of the phrase is /ˈɡɑtn ˈaʊt frəm ˈʌndər/.
"Gotten out from under" is a commonly used idiomatic expression that refers to the act of successfully removing oneself from a difficult or burdensome situation. This phrase typically implies a sense of relief or liberation after having been freed from some form of constraint or responsibility.
Used metaphorically, "gotten out from under" usually signifies overcoming obstacles or escaping from challenging circumstances that may have been causing stress, anxiety, or financial strain. This could range from being freed from oppressive relationships, overcoming a heavy workload, or managing to resolve a problematic situation. It suggests a sense of active agency or deliberate action taken to improve one's situation.
The term "gotten" is the past participle of "get," indicating the completion of an action. "Under" refers to being beneath or subject to something, like a burden or pressure. Taken together, "gotten out from under" reflects the achievement of removing oneself from the weight or control of such forces, thereby enabling a sense of freedom and accomplishment.
Overall, this idiom encapsulates a feeling of relief and elation that arises from successfully breaking free from difficult circumstances or responsibilities that were previously weighing one down. It signifies the triumph over challenges and signifies the ability to regain control over one's life or circumstances.