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to play ducks and drakes with sth
01
浪费一些东西
to use or handle something in a wasteful and careless manner
![to [play] ducks and drakes with {sth} definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/41838/original/?type=jpeg "to [play] ducks and drakes with {sth} definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "make a go of something" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "play ducks and drakes with something" can be traced to a centuries-old pastime that involved skimming flat stones or small objects across the surface of water, typically on a body of water like a pond, lake, or river. The game was known as "ducks and drakes" and was named after the way the stones skipped or bounced on the water's surface, resembling the motion of ducks and drakes (male ducks) when they briefly touch down on water. It is often used in discussions related to finances, investments, budgeting, data security, or decision-making, highlighting a lack of responsibility and seriousness in managing these important aspects.
例子
It was clear that the government had been playing ducks and drakes with environmental regulations, leading to ecological damage.
She played ducks and drakes with her inheritance, squandering it on extravagant purchases.
The careless handling of the sensitive information by the employee showed that he was playing ducks and drakes with the company's data security.
Instead of saving for the future, he played ducks and drakes with his savings, spending it on impulsive vacations.
The company's management seemed to be playing ducks and drakes with their finances, leading to financial instability.
