"Takes to the cleaners" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation where someone is thoroughly defeated or severely disadvantaged, usually in a financial or competitive sense. It refers to someone being cheated, swindled, or financially exploited by another person or entity.
The phrase originated from its literal meaning, relating to the act of bringing one's clothes to a dry cleaner. In this context, the clothes are given to the cleaner to be thoroughly cleaned, which implies a complete removal of dirt, stains, or any imperfection. Similarly, when someone "takes another to the cleaners," they metaphorically strip that person of their possessions, wealth, or assets, leaving them with nothing or significantly reduced resources.
This expression can be used in various contexts, such as in sports, business, or personal relationships, to convey a sense of complete domination or exploitation. For example, in a tennis match, if one player easily defeats their opponent by winning every game, set, and match, they can be said to have taken their opponent to the cleaners. Similarly, in a business negotiation, if one party takes advantage of another's lack of knowledge or bargaining power, resulting in an unfair deal, they are said to have taken the other party to the cleaners.
Overall, "takes to the cleaners" illustrates a metaphorical concept of being thoroughly and often unfairly defeated or disadvantaged, suggesting a significant loss or exploitation in financial transactions, competitions, or interactions.
