To take someone to the cleaners is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation where someone completely dominates or outmaneuvers another person, often to the point of financial loss or ruin. The phrase is typically used informally and has its origins in the world of gambling and sports betting.
The figurative meaning of taking someone to the cleaners refers to the act of winning all of someone's money, possessions, or advantages, leaving them with nothing. It implies a scenario where one party is considerably more skilled, cunning, or experienced than the other, resulting in a severe defeat or loss for the latter party.
The term can also be used in a non-literal sense to describe situations beyond gambling or sports betting. It can be applied to various contexts where someone has been exploited, swindled, or drained of their resources, whether in business, negotiations, legal matters, or personal relationships.
The connotation of taking someone to the cleaners is generally negative, as it implies a significant disadvantage or exploitation of the victim. It suggests a lack of fairness or equity in the encounter, with one party taking advantage of the other's vulnerability or naivety.
In summary, the phrase "taking someone to the cleaners" describes a situation where one party triumphs over another, often resulting in a substantial financial loss or disadvantage for the defeated party. It indicates an unfair or inequitable outcome, highlighting the dominance, cunning, or superiority of the winning party.
