The phrase "putting double whammy on" is a colloquial expression used to describe a situation where someone or something is getting hit with two negative factors simultaneously. The word "whammy" is pronounced /ˈwæmi/ (WAM-ee), with the stress on the first syllable. The added "double" emphasizes that there are two whammies occurring at the same time. The spelling of "whammy" is likely derived from the sound effect used on television game shows, where a sound effect would play after the contestant received a negative outcome.
The phrase "putting double whammy on" is an idiomatic expression primarily used in informal contexts to convey the idea of subjecting someone or something to a powerful or decisive blow or setback, usually through the combination of two negative or challenging circumstances. This phrase denotes the act of intensifying the impact on the target in a way that significantly heightens the detrimental effects.
The term "putting" in this phrase signifies the act of inflicting, imposing, or adding something, indicating a deliberate action taken by the person causing the double whammy. "Double" denotes the multiplication or doubling of the impact, implying that not just one, but two blows or difficulties are being imposed simultaneously. "Whammy" characterizes a severe or devastating situation, depicting the strength or potency of the negative outcome.
When one is said to be "putting a double whammy on" something, it suggests an intentional course of action aimed at exacerbating the challenges faced by the subject or exacerbating the negative consequences suffered by them. This phrase often implies the presence of intent or malice on the part of the individual administering the double whammy, highlighting the deliberate effort to cause significant harm or to ensure a severe outcome.
Overall, "putting a double whammy on" signifies the act of intentionally compounding or increasing the impact of negative circumstances or events on someone or something, leading to a more pronounced, extensive, or detrimental result.