Discover the Origin of the Phrase 'Bought It'

Uncover the fascinating origins of the phrase 'bought it' from WWII aviation slang.

184 views

The phrase 'bought it' originated in military aviation terms during WWII. It was used to describe a pilot crashing or dying in terms of having 'bought' a plot of land (a metaphor for a burial plot). Over time, the phrase evolved into a broader slang meaning 'met an unfortunate end.'

FAQs & Answers

  1. What does 'bought it' mean today? 'Bought it' is commonly used to mean someone has died or met an unfortunate fate.
  2. How did military terms influence everyday language? Military terms often find their way into everyday language as cultural references evolve, creating slang that reflects broader experiences.
  3. Are there other phrases with military origins? Yes, many phrases like 'kick the bucket' and 'the whole nine yards' have military roots and have evolved in meaning over time.

Watch More

If you're interested in more fascinating etymologies and the evolution of language, check out our videos on military slang and common phrases.

  1. Origin of the Word 'Boom' Explained: Dutch Roots and Historical Usage Discover the origins of the word 'boom' and its evolution from Dutch to modern English.