The phrase "take the cleaners" is spelled phonetically as /teɪk ðə ˈklɪnərz/. It means to be cheated, tricked or swindled in a financial situation. The origin of this phrase is uncertain, but it's believed to have originated in the United States during the early 20th century. The word "take" is pronounced as /teɪk/ with a long "a" sound, while "cleaners" is pronounced as /ˈklɪnərz/ with a voiced "n" sound and a silent final "e". Overall, this phrase is easily recognizable in speech but can be somewhat challenging to spell correctly.
"Take the cleaners" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation in which someone suffers a substantial financial loss, typically after being deceived, cheated, or swindled. It is often used colloquially and metaphorically when referring to someone who has been severely disadvantaged or exploited in a financial transaction or situation.
The phrase "take the cleaners" derives from the notion of being thoroughly cleaned out, much like a piece of clothing being cleaned of dirt, grime, or stains. When someone has been taken the cleaners, they have suffered a significant financial setback or loss, leaving them in a state of emotional distress and possibly financial ruin.
This expression is often associated with scenarios such as fraudulent investment schemes, deceptive sales tactics, or predatory lending practices, where individuals or organizations intentionally exploit others for financial gain. It emphasizes the severe and unfair nature of the loss experienced by the affected party.
Usage of this phrase suggests that the person involved has been outsmarted, manipulated, or conned into making poor financial decisions or engaging in agreements that ultimately result in substantial monetary loss. It serves as a warning or cautionary tale to others about the potential risks and consequences of engaging in certain financial activities without full knowledge or awareness of the potential pitfalls and and dangers they may entail.