The phrase "do a number on" is an idiomatic expression that is often used in informal speech and writing. It typically refers to the act of causing harm, damage, or negative effects to someone or something. It can be used both literally and figuratively.
In its literal sense, "do a number on" may imply physically injuring or harming someone or something. For example, if a person gets into a car accident and their vehicle sustains significant damage, one might say, "That crash really did a number on their car."
Figuratively, the phrase is often used to describe situations where someone is mentally or emotionally hurt or affected. If a person receives a particularly harsh criticism or endures a traumatic experience, their emotional well-being might be negatively impacted. In this case, one might say, "That harsh comment really did a number on their self-confidence."
The phrase can also be used to describe instances where someone's actions or behavior have caused disruptive or detrimental consequences. For instance, if an employee continuously neglects their responsibilities, their actions might have a negative impact on the overall productivity of the team. In this case, one might say, "Their lack of commitment really did a number on the team's progress."
In summary, "do a number on" refers to causing harm, damage, or negative effects, whether physically, emotionally, or behaviorally, to someone or something. It is a colloquial expression that conveys the idea of significant impact or consequence.
