The phrase "taken cleaners" is spelled using the phonetic transcription /ˈteɪkən ˈklinərz/. The first part, "taken," is pronounced with a short "a" as in "cat." The second part, "cleaners," is pronounced with a long "e" as in "beet" and a schwa sound in the second syllable. This phrase means to be defeated or outwitted, often in a financial sense. It is important to spell words correctly to ensure clear communication and understanding.
"Taken cleaners" is a colloquial phrase that originated from the figurative language of idiomatic expressions. It is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation or scenario where someone incurs significant financial losses, suffers a complete or devastating defeat, or is left in a state of ruin or devastation due to a particular event or action.
The term "taken cleaners" often implies a sudden and unexpected turn of events that leaves the person in a helpless or vulnerable position. It is similar to other idioms like "cleaned out" or "wiped out," emphasizing the severity of the loss or defeat suffered.
This expression is believed to have originated from the cleaning industry, where a cleaner’s main task is to get rid of dirt, stains, or messes from a particular area or object. Metaphorically, when someone is "taken cleaners," it suggests that they have been metaphorically stripped or cleaned of their possessions, resources, or power they formerly possessed.
The use of the term "taken cleaners" is most commonly found in informal conversations or informal writing contexts, such as anecdotes or storytelling. It is not typically found in more formal or academic language. It is important to note that this expression is context-dependent and understanding its meaning requires comprehension of the surrounding context and usage.
The phrase "taken cleaners" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in sports contexts, particularly in reference to a person or team being defeated thoroughly or decisively. It is believed to have originated from the world of billiards or pool.
In billiards, "cleaning" refers to the act of clearing the table by potting all the balls without allowing the opponent to take a turn. Therefore, if someone is "taken cleaners", it implies that they were completely outplayed or defeated without any chance to make a significant impact or score points.
The exact etymology of this idiomatic phrase is uncertain, as it has evolved through usage over time. However, its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century when billiards and pool were gaining popularity. It is likely that the phrase has subsequently been adapted and applied to various sports and competitive scenarios beyond billiards.