Sometimes we say terms that have “always been said” without knowing their origin. Occasionally those terms are outdated, even though we continue to say them.
- “Don’t touch that dial” – Referring to changing TV or radio channels, even though dials are no longer common.
- “Roll down the window” – Used for opening car windows, even though most windows are now powered.
- “Hang up the phone” – Meaning to end a call, despite most phones being cordless or mobile.
- “Break a leg” – Theater slang for good luck, originated from when actors would not get paid if they did not break the “leg line” in theater
- “Carbon copy” – Used to reference making copies, even though carbon paper is obsolete.
- “Rewind the tape” – Referring to going back in audio or video, even though tapes are no longer commonly used.
- “On the same page” – Comes from physical documents, even though digital communication is prevalent.
- “Knock on wood” – Superstitious saying, possibly originating from pagan traditions.
- “Close but no cigar” – from carnival games where you used to win cigars as your prize
- “Penny for your thoughts” – Asking someone what they’re thinking, though the value is outdated.
