The phrase "putting tail on" is sometimes used colloquially to mean "adding an extra element to something." The spelling of this phrase reflects the English language's sometimes non-intuitive relationship between spelling and pronunciation. The word "putting" is pronounced /ˈpʊtɪŋ/, while the word "tail" is pronounced /teɪl/. The phrase may be spelled with a hyphen between "putting" and "tail" or without, depending on the writer's preference.
"Putting tail on" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of closely monitoring or observing someone or something to gather information or ensure accountability. This phrase often implies a sense of surveillance or close scrutiny.
When someone is said to be "putting tail on" another individual, it means they are discreetly following or tracking their movements for various reasons, such as gathering evidence or maintaining surveillance for security purposes. This could involve physically following someone or utilizing advanced technological methods like GPS tracking.
Similarly, the expression can also apply to situations where an organization or authority is closely monitoring certain practices, actions, or behaviors to ensure compliance or accountability. For instance, a regulatory agency might "put tail on" a company suspected of unlawful activities to collect evidence for legal action.
The phrase "putting tail on" can sometimes carry negative connotations as it suggests a lack of trust or suspicion. However, it can also be used in a neutral context, particularly in investigative or oversight contexts, where close scrutiny is necessary and justified.
Overall, "putting tail on" is a metaphorical expression used to convey the act of closely monitoring or observing someone or something for various purposes, such as surveillance, investigation, or ensuring compliance.