When we talk about things that are wasted or lost, we often use the phrase "pours down the drain". The phonetic transcription of "pours" is /pɔːrz/, with the stress on the first syllable. The sound "p" is made by releasing a puff of air from the lips, followed by the "aw" sound made at the back of the mouth. The "r" sound is pronounced with the tip of the tongue curled back towards the roof of the mouth. The final "s" sound is pronounced by tightly pressing the tongue against the alveolar ridge.
"Pours down the drain" is an idiomatic expression that refers to wasting something valuable or letting it go to waste, often as a result of poor decision-making or careless actions. This phrase is commonly used metaphorically to describe a situation where time, effort, resources, or opportunities are all squandered and result in a complete loss or failure.
When something is said to be poured down the drain, it implies a irreversible loss or a futile endeavor. It suggests that the efforts invested in a particular task or endeavor are rendered useless or ineffective, leading to disappointment or regret. This can apply to various aspects of life, such as education, work, relationships, or personal endeavors.
For example, if someone spends years studying a subject that holds no practical value or employment opportunities, it can be said that their time and effort was poured down the drain. Similarly, if someone chooses to neglect their responsibilities and instead squanders their resources on frivolous pursuits, their hard-earned money could be said to have gone down the drain.
Overall, the expression "pours down the drain" conveys a strong sense of waste and a lost opportunity. It serves as a cautionary reminder to be mindful of our decisions and use our resources wisely in order to avoid regrets or futile outcomes.