The phrase "poured down the drain" is a common idiom used to describe a waste of resources or effort. In IPA phonetic transcription, "poured" is spelled /pɔːd/ while "drain" is spelled /dreɪn/. The "ou" in "poured" is pronounced as a long "o" sound, while the "ai" in "drain" is pronounced as a long "a" sound. The combination of these two words creates a satisfying alliteration that emphasizes the sense of waste implied by the phrase.
The phrase "poured down the drain" refers to the act of disposing or getting rid of a liquid substance by letting it flow down the drain, usually through a sink or some other plumbing fixture. It implies the action of intentionally wasting or discarding a significant quantity of liquid that could have been useful or valuable.
This expression carries both literal and figurative connotations. Literally, it refers to physically pouring a liquid down a drain, which commonly occurs when excess water, chemicals, or unwanted substances are emptied or flushed away. Examples of liquids poured down the drain range from water, cleaning agents, expired food or beverages, to even harmful substances like toxic chemicals or medications.
Figuratively, "poured down the drain" is used to describe situations where time, effort, resources, or opportunities are wasted or squandered. It portrays a sense of loss or regret, emphasizing the inefficient or unproductive use of something that was meant to be advantageous. This phrase can be applied in various contexts, such as describing the misspent potential of a failed project, the loss of financial investments, or the abandonment of promising opportunities. Overall, "poured down the drain" reflects a state of wastefulness or negligence, often with a negative connotation and a sense of irretrievable loss.