take a beating

take a beating

Meaning

• to be defeated in doing something and be reprimanded for the same
• to lose a considerable amount of money
• to get punished for something not done right
• be defeated or to lose of lots of money

Example Sentences

1. The younger sibling never takes a beating even if they have done the mischief. It is always the older child who is blamed.
2. I took the beating when the caterer did not deliver the food on time. He was hired through my reference after all.
3. She always takes a beating for her husband because he never bothers attending any important family events.
4. Freya should not be taking the beating for the work that was not her responsibility.
5. I take the beating for being late every time even though it is my husband who takes a long time getting ready.
6. I know many people who will avoid taking a beating at all costs.
7. Owing to adverse reports in the media, the British Boarding Cast took a beating last year.

Origin

The origin is speculated to be from the beatings that dogs got from their owners when they misbehaved. The beating is of course in a metaphorical form now and not a physical one. The phrase dates back to the 1800's and is more popular in British English than the American one. The exact literary origin is yet to be traced.