what does this mean?

[bubbles4920]

when someone says 'he/she doesnt take any prisoners', what does it mean?

[dannyday5821]

i interpret this as like someone been on a mission, and they intend to win, destroying anyone and anything in their path - therefore - taking no prisoners!

[Quizmonster]

In olden times, after a pitched battle, soldiers of the victorious army would drift around the battlefield executing any enemy soldiers - wounded perhaps - still remaining...ie showing no mercy.
Since the Geneva Convention, things have been a little more civilised...that is, such soldiers or any who simply surrendered are now supposed to be taken prisoner and reasonably looked after.
When the words, "He takes no prisoners" are used nowadays, they just mean that this person is utterly ruthless and means to get what he wants regardless of its effect on anyone else he deals with.

[Peter Pedant]

or doesnt give a break

so if someone makes a mistake on which they can be fired, the someone who takes no prisoners would not give them a second chance, but fires them.

[bubbles4920]

thanks for you replies,i thought it meant that you didnt take any messing from anyone, im asking this question by the way cos my mum always said this about me. i do give people second chances, i do forgive but never forget!