The phrase "throw away the keys" is pronounced /θroʊ əˈweɪ ðə kiz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "th" sound in "throw" is made by placing the tongue between the teeth, while the "ow" sound is a diphthong, starting with an "o" sound and moving to an "u" sound. The "k" in "keys" is pronounced with a hard sound, while the "e" and the "y" create a long "i" sound. Overall, the spelling of these words follows standard English conventions.
"Throw away the keys" is an idiomatic expression that means to permanently imprison or lock someone away, typically in reference to a criminal or a dangerous individual who is seen as a threat to society. The phrase implies that the person being confined should never be released or given the opportunity to escape.
The phrase is derived from the literal act of disposing of the keys that would unlock a prison cell, indicating a complete and final decision to keep someone imprisoned. It conveys a strong sense of punishment and permanence, suggesting that the person in question is deserving of and will receive the harshest possible penalty.
The expression is often used figuratively to express a desire for justice or an extreme punishment for someone who has committed a heinous crime or caused significant harm. It is a metaphorical way of saying that the offender should be locked away permanently, without any chance of parole or release.
Furthermore, "throw away the keys" can also be used more broadly to convey an unyielding determination to eliminate a problem or eliminate the possibility of a recurrence. It signifies a resolute decision to take a definitive action and not leave any room for reversibility or reconsideration.