Pronunciation: [nˌɒt wɒt ɪt wˈɒz] (IPA) 
The phrase "not what it was" is commonly used to describe something that has deteriorated or changed for the worse. The spelling of this phrase may confuse non-native English speakers, as the "w" in "was" is silent. In IPA phonetic transcription, "not what it was" would be /nɒt wɒt ɪt wʌz/. The silent "w" in "was" is indicated by the symbol "/ʌ/" which represents the sound in the middle of the word "but".
"Not what it was" is a phrase often used to describe something or someone that has undergone a significant decline or deterioration in quality, value, or performance compared to its previous state. It suggests that the current state or condition of the subject is not as good, impressive, or successful as it used to be.
This phrase can be applied to various aspects of life, such as a business, a relationship, a place, or even a person's health. For example, if someone says, "This restaurant is not what it was," they imply that the restaurant's food, service, or overall experience has worsened over time.
The phrase can also imply changes in the characteristics or qualities of something, highlighting the differences between its past and present condition. It may imply that the subject has lost its original charm, essence, or appeal. This loss could be due to a variety of reasons like neglect, mismanagement, or other external factors.
In summary, "not what it was" describes a decline or deterioration in quality, value, or performance compared to the previous state. It suggests that the subject has experienced a change for the worse, potentially losing its original appeal or attributes.
