Pronunciation: [tuː dˈuː tˈa͡ɪm] (IPA) 
The phrase "to do time" means to serve a prison sentence. Its spelling is straightforward, with each word written as it sounds. "To" is pronounced /tu/ and "do" is pronounced /du/. "Time" is pronounced /tʌɪm/. The word "time" here doesn't refer to clock time, but rather the duration of the prison sentence. The phrase is commonly used in slang and is prevalent in the context of the criminal justice system.
To do time is a slang phrase that refers to the act of serving a prison sentence or being incarcerated for a specific period of time. It is commonly used to describe the experience of being confined in a correctional facility, paying the consequence for committing a crime.
When someone is said to be doing time, it implies that they are serving their prescribed sentence, which could range from days to years, depending on the severity of the offense committed and the decision of the court. Doing time involves being confined to a prison cell, following a strict daily routine, and being subject to the rules and regulations of the correctional institution.
The phrase encompasses the idea that time spent in prison is a punishment that must be endured and completed before one can be released and resume their normal life. During this period, individuals may reflect on their actions and work towards rehabilitation or personal growth, depending on the availability of rehabilitation programs.
The colloquialism "to do time" can also carry negative connotations, as it implies that the person has engaged in criminal activities and has been caught, judged, and sentenced for their wrongdoing. The phrase has become a widely recognized term in popular culture, often associated with the portrayal of prison life in movies, books, and other forms of entertainment.
