The phrase "is taken to the cleaners" is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe a situation in which someone is severely exploited or cheated, often in a financial or personal sense. When an individual is taken to the cleaners, it implies that they have been cunningly deceived or manipulated by another party, resulting in a significant loss or disadvantage.
This phrase originates from the literal sense of the idiom, where "the cleaners" refers to dry cleaners. In the past, dry cleaning establishments were known to thoroughly clean and remove stains from clothes, leaving them spotless. Therefore, when someone is "taken to the cleaners," it implies that they have been metaphorically stripped clean, both financially and emotionally.
The expression is commonly used in informal contexts, especially during conversations or discussions involving situations where one party has suffered financial, legal, or romantic setbacks. It can also refer to situations where one takes heavy losses or experiences a significant disadvantage due to someone else's actions or manipulation. For instance, if a person invests all their savings in a fraudulent scheme and ends up losing everything, it can be said that they were taken to the cleaners.
Overall, "is taken to the cleaners" signifies being deceived, cheated, or exploited, resulting in significant losses or disadvantages. It is a figurative expression used to emphasize the severity of the situation and the extent of the harm suffered.
