In a world where language evolves at the pace of technology, many phrases once common are now puzzling to Millennials and younger generations. Here’s a look at thirteen expressions that we no longer use today. Before reading the paragraphs, quiz yourself and try to guess the phrase’s meaning alone.
1. “Don’t touch that dial!”
This phrase refers to radios and TVs that had physical dials for tuning. Most of us have only seen TVs like that in pictures and movies. Nowadays, with streaming services and digital devices, the concept of touching a dial is as obsolete as VHS tapes.
2. “Be kind, rewind.”
Speaking of VHS tapes, this phrase was a courteous reminder from the Blockbuster era, asking users to rewind tapes before returning them. Today’s viewers simply rent from their TVs’, laptops, or tablets with no rewind necessary.
3. “Word from the bird”
This somewhat obscure slang term originated in the 1950s and 1960s. It was used primarily in the United States and meant that the shared information was reliable or true. It’s similar to phrases like “You heard it here first” or “Take it to the bank.”
4. “Carbon copy.”
You’ve always seen “CC” in your emails, but did you know it meant “carbon copy”? This phrase comes from the days when carbon paper was used to make duplicate documents. It is the only one on the list that stayed in the digital era with a new look.
5. Don’t flip your wig”
Use this expression the next time you want to tell someone to calm down. This saying emerged in the mid-20th century and plays on the common practice of wearing wigs at the time. Wigs are even more accessible now, so the phrase is still relevant, but since no one likes their wigs pointed out, we can’t be held liable for what happens if you decide to say it.
6. “That and a nickel will get you a cup of coffee.”
This phrase suggests that something is of little value. With sky-high inflation rates, this saying has not aged well. Coffee certainly costs more than a nickel now.
7. “Don’t know him from Adam.”
This phrase is most common with Christians due to its biblical reference. It used to say you don’t know, recognize, or remember someone at all. Today, Millennials are more likely to use the saying popularized by Mariah Carey, “I don’t know her.”
8. “Flash in the pan.”
Originally, this expression referred to a musket failing to fire properly. Now, it describes something that shows potential but quickly disappoints.
9. “Keep it under your hat.”
Use this phrase at your next gossip-filled brunch. It’s used to tell someone to keep a secret, literally suggesting hiding something under one’s hat.
10. “Heavens to Betsy”
This expression is commonly used in the old South to show shock or surprise. If you’re wondering who this Betsy person is, no one knows. Some claim the phrase refers to Betsy Ross, but we can’t be sure.
11. “Runs like a Singer sewing machine.”
This saying describes something that operates smoothly, efficiently, and reliably. It draws directly from the reputation of Singer sewing machines, which were known for their quality and durability. As an avid sewer, I can tell you that I have had my Singer for over 13 years, and it still works!
12. “Want to go watch the submarine races?”
I was shocked when I found out the meaning of this phrase; it was impossible to guess. If you remember the term “Make out point,” that’s basically what submarine races are. Use expression the next time you want some consenting canoodling with your lover.
13. “Oh, that’s a fur piece up the road.”
This phrase was commonly used in the South and rural areas to indicate that something was very far away. Did you know some economists think the Federal Reserve won’t lower interest rates until March 2025? That has to be at least two fur pieces up the road, right?
Think of these expressions like linguistic fossils, telling stories from an era we no longer see or hear today. Just think, in 50 years, our common phrases will be known as relics to the new youngins.
Did some of these phrases make you laugh? Which ones do you think we start using again today?
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