Amitabh Bachchan Delves into the Origins of Everyday Expressions
Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has offered a fascinating reflection on the curious ways in which everyday language borrows heavily from the worlds of cars and cricket. In a recent blog post, the legendary actor shared his observations on how common phrases and similes often stem from these two ubiquitous domains of sport and the road, revealing the subtle yet pervasive influence they have on daily communication.
Automotive Metaphors in Daily Life
Bachchan highlighted a motley collection of phrases that people use routinely, drawing direct parallels to automotive terminology. He noted how individuals describe their efforts hitting obstacles by saying "hard work has come upon a speed breaker," or when accelerating progress, they talk about "pressing the accelerator." Similarly, in moments of caution, the expression "putting the brakes on" is commonly employed at the first sign of trouble.
The actor expressed a sense of wonder at this linguistic phenomenon, questioning why such car-related similes are so prevalent. He elaborated with examples, writing, "So much still to learn and understand... each moment shifts gears, so to say... (why the heck do we always give similes related to a car, or games?)...!! 'My work and hard work has come upon with a speed breaker,' 'I was trundling along quite well, but decided to speed up, so pressed the accelerator', 'when I sense trouble, I just put my brakes on'."
Further extending the automotive analogy, Bachchan pointed to expressions like "running out of gas" when energy levels dip, and the frustration of not appreciating "backseat driving" when unsolicited opinions are offered. He also mentioned the positive connotation of "getting a green light" for a venture, symbolizing approval and momentum.
Cricketing Terms Seamlessly Integrated into Speech
Drawing parallels with the sport of cricket, the thespian illustrated how cricketing terminology has seamlessly become part of common vernacular. He explained that remarks such as "that was a bouncer" are used when something goes over one's head or is difficult to comprehend. The phrase "well left" is employed when choosing not to engage in a situation, mirroring a batsman's decision to let a ball pass without playing a shot.
Bachchan also noted how achievements are often celebrated by calling them a "sixer," referencing the maximum score in cricket when the ball is hit beyond the boundary without bouncing. He provided detailed explanations: "'Ok! So that was a bouncer' (the ball that is bowled going above the head of the batsman - so what was said just went above my head... could not understand) 'well left...' (did not attempt to put bat to ball, and allowed the ball to go past batsman in crease, in cricket terms... a decisive decision for not getting involved, in what was suggested) 'O boy that's a sixer!' (in cricket when the batsman hits the ball beyond the boundary of the playing field, without a bounce, six runs a max - your achievement was incredible) and similarly... bowled... self goal... hit wicket... run out..."
Reflecting on the Evolution of Human Vocabulary
In his musings, Bachchan marveled at the development and continuous maturation of human vocabulary. He emphasized how language evolves day in and day out, absorbing influences from various aspects of life, including sports and technology. Concluding his post on a light-hearted note, he wrote, "The vocabulary of the human... how it was developed and how it keeps maturing day in day out... Ok Ef...! retired hurt...!!!! going for a nap."
This insightful exploration by Amitabh Bachchan not only entertains but also educates, shedding light on the dynamic nature of language and its ability to incorporate elements from diverse fields into everyday conversation.
