The correct spelling for the phrase "were taken cleaners" is "we're taken to cleaners," which means to be taken advantage of financially or otherwise deceived. The apostrophe in "we're" indicates a contraction of "we are." The pronunciation of "we're" uses the IPA transcription /wɪər/. The phrase "taken to cleaners" is an idiomatic expression and not related to the literal meaning of cleaners. Its pronunciation uses the IPA transcription /ˈklɛnərz/.
The phrase "were taken cleaners" is an idiomatic expression used in informal language to describe a situation where someone has been completely defeated or overwhelmed, resulting in a significant loss or failure. It implies a thorough and decisive victory of one party over another, leaving the latter with no chances of recovery or redemption.
When one says "were taken cleaners," it means that the person or group being referred to has been thoroughly beaten, often in a way that was unexpected or one-sided. The phrase suggests a high level of vulnerability and a lack of defense or resistance against the winning side.
This expression originates from the use of "cleaners" to describe a person or team that cleans up a location or removes dirt effectively and efficiently. By metaphorically applying this concept to a situation, the phrase suggests that the winning party has not only achieved victory but has done so with great efficiency and thoroughness, leaving their opponent in a state of complete defeat or destruction.
It is essential to note that "were taken cleaners" is an idiomatic phrase and shouldn't be interpreted literally. Instead, it should be understood as a figurative way of emphasizing the magnitude of a defeat or loss, illustrating the total domination of one side over another in a given circumstance.