put through: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘put through’ mean?

The idiom "put through" means to connect or transfer someone in a phone call, often by using a switchboard. It can also mean to make someone experience a difficult or challenging situation.

Idiom Explorer

Unlocking the Potential of "Put Through"

The idiom "put through" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It has several different meanings and can be used in various contexts.

One of the main uses of this idiom is in the context of making a telephone call. When someone says they will "put through" a call, it means they will connect the caller to the desired recipient. This usage originates from the early days of telephone communication when operators physically plugged in the corresponding wires to connect a call. Over time, this physical action was replaced by automated systems, but the idiom still persists in modern-day language.

In addition to phone calls, "put through" can also refer to completing a process or action. For example, when someone says they will "put through" an order or a request, they are indicating that they will ensure the necessary steps are taken to finalize it. This usage implies that the person speaking has the power or authority to facilitate the completion of the task.

Furthermore, "put through" can be used to describe someone who has gone through a difficult or challenging experience. This idiomatic expression suggests that the person has endured or suffered through the situation. It can be used to convey empathy or understanding towards someone who has faced adversity.

What is the origin of this common expression?

Another usage of "put through" is in the context of deception or manipulation. When someone is said to have been "put through" something, it means they have been subjected to a trick or a deceitful act. This can involve misleading or fooling someone, often for personal gain or amusement. The idiom implies that the person has been manipulated or taken advantage of in some way.

"put through the mangle" is a related idiom that builds on the concept of "put through." In this idiom, the word "mangle" refers to a machine used in the past to squeeze water out of clothes. When someone is "put through the mangle," it means they have endured a strenuous or difficult experience, much like being squeezed or pressed. This idiom adds an extra layer of intensity to the concept of going through a challenging situation, emphasizing the physical or emotional toll it can take on a person.

"put through the wringer" is another related idiom that further emphasizes the idea of enduring a difficult experience. The word "wringer" refers to a machine used in the past to squeeze water out of wet clothes. When someone is "put through the wringer," it means they have been subjected to intense pressure or scrutiny. This idiom implies that the person has faced significant challenges or obstacles and has been metaphorically squeezed or tested, much like clothes being wrung out to remove excess water.

On the other hand, "come through" is a related idiom that focuses on the outcome or result of a challenging experience. When someone "comes through" a difficult situation, it means they have successfully navigated it or emerged from it. This idiom implies strength, resilience, and the ability to overcome obstacles. It can be used to commend or acknowledge someone's achievements or the positive outcome of their efforts.

Finally, "go through with" is a related idiom that relates to following through on a planned action or decision, regardless of any difficulties or reservations. When someone "goes through with" something, it means they have carried out the intended course of action, despite any obstacles or doubts. This idiom emphasizes determination, commitment, and the willingness to see something through to the end.

The idiom "put through" has multiple meanings and can be used in different contexts. It can refer to connecting a phone call, completing a process, enduring a difficult experience, or being deceived. These various uses demonstrate the flexibility and versatility of idiomatic expressions in the English language. While we have explored the known facts about this idiom, there may still be undiscovered nuances or metaphorical interpretations to be explored.

Example usage

Examples:

  1. He called the customer service line to put through his complaint.
  2. The receptionist put through the important call to the CEO.
  3. She asked the clerk to put through the payment for her order.

Analysis:

The idiom "put through" is often used when referring to the action of connecting or transferring someone or something through a system or process.

In the first example, the customer is trying to put through his complaint by contacting the customer service line. This implies that he wants his complaint to be processed and addressed.

The second example mentions a receptionist putting through an important call to the CEO. Here, "put through" means to connect the call so that the CEO can receive it.

In the final example, the customer requests the clerk to put through the payment for her order. This means that she wants the payment transaction to be processed.

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