Pronunciation: [pˌʊt tˈe͡ɪl ˈɒn] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "put tail on" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first word, "put," is pronounced /pʊt/ with a short "u" sound and a "t" at the end. The second word, "tail," is pronounced /teɪl/ with a long "a" sound followed by an "l." The preposition "on" is pronounced /ɒn/ with a short "o" sound and an "n" at the end. When put together, the phrase is pronounced /pʊt teɪl ɒn/.
The phrase "put tail on" is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe the act of closely monitoring or tracking someone or something, usually for the purpose of surveillance or investigation. It typically refers to the process of secretly following or observing an individual or a target. The term "tail" in this context refers to the practice of following someone discreetly, usually without their knowledge, in order to gather information.
When someone is said to "put tail on" another person, it implies a deliberate and covert effort to keep tabs on their activities, whereabouts, or actions. This could involve physical surveillance techniques such as tailing an individual in a vehicle or on foot, or it may also encompass the use of modern technology such as tracking devices or cameras.
The phrase often connotes a sense of clandestine or secretive behavior, as it suggests that the person being followed may be unaware of the surveillance. The purpose of "putting tail on" someone can vary, ranging from law enforcement agencies investigating suspected criminals to private investigators tracking subjects involved in potential wrongdoing or people wishing to gather information for personal reasons.
In summary, the term "put tail on" refers to the act of closely and discreetly tracking or observing someone for investigative purposes, employing various surveillance methods to monitor their activities.
