"Take to the cleaners" is an idiomatic expression that refers to a situation where someone is significantly disadvantaged or exploited, typically in financial matters. This phrase is often used to describe instances where an individual or a group suffers substantial financial losses, being left with little or nothing after a transaction or an encounter. It implies being outmaneuvered, outplayed, or deceived in a business transaction, negotiation, or a game of chance, resulting in one party losing a considerable amount of money.
The phrase originated from the idea of tarnishing or stripping someone of their belongings or wealth, leaving them with nothing, similar to how dirty laundry is taken to a laundry service to be cleaned. Metaphorically, when someone is "taken to the cleaners," they are figuratively stripped of their resources, assets, or financial benefits, often due to a cunning or unfair advantage taken by another person or party.
"Taking someone to the cleaners" can extend beyond financial contexts to describe situations where a person is taken advantage of or exploited in various ways, such as being manipulated, subjected to emotional or psychological harm, or facing a significant setback.
Overall, "take to the cleaners" carries the connotation of being severely disadvantaged or exploited, often resulting in substantial financial losses or other negative consequences.
