What Does ‘Clapped Out’ Mean in Australia: A Comprehensive Guide
The phrase 'clapped out' is a common expression in Australian slang, often used to describe something or someone as worn out, broken down, or no longer functional. This article delves into the usage, context, and origin of this term, providing a deeper understanding of its meaning in Australian vernacular.
Understanding 'Clapped Out'
When someone in Australia says their car is 'all clapped out,' they mean that the vehicle is outdated, requires numerous repairs, and is barely functional. Similarly, if a person says, 'I’m all clapped out today,' they are expressing extreme tiredness or a lack of energy.
Usage Context
The term 'clapped out' is most frequently used to describe cars or other vehicles that are old and in need of significant repair. For instance, the following sentence illustrates this usage:
He drives a clapped out 1990 Holden Commodore with bald tyres and a hole in the muffler.
Equivalents and Analogies
There are several phrases and terms in Australian slang that have similar meanings to 'clapped out.' Some of these include:
Buggered: describes a car or other item that is completely broken down and non-functional. Stuffed: indicates that something is beyond repair or is not in good condition. Had the gong: this term suggests that something is not functional and requires immediate attention.These phrases are often used interchangeably in casual conversation.
Etymology and Origin
The term 'clapped out' originated from the slang term 'the clap,' which refers to a sexually transmitted disease. The association with 'clap' may imply that the item in question is 'broken' or 'diseased' in a similar sense to the illness. Over time, this term evolved to mean something that is no longer useful or functional.
Examples in Sentences
The following sentence provides a practical example of how 'clapped out' can be used in conversation:
“I'd take youse to school but the Commodore’s clapped out so youse'll have to Shanghai the neighbour’s treadly again and dinky your sister. There’s a couple of lobsters down the back of the couch grab us a deck of durries and a couple of King Browns on the way back.”
In this example, the speaker is expressing that the car (Commodore) is not functional and suggests borrowing his neighbor's car instead. The terms 'Shanghai,' 'dinky,' 'lobsters,' 'durries,' and 'King Browns' are also common Australian slang terms that add to the richness of the expression.
Further Usage
The term 'clapped out' is not limited to cars. It can also be used to describe various items or situations that are no longer useful or functional. For instance:
Your old lady/desc can be pretty clapped out after some big miles, meaning it is worn out and in need of repair.
In the UK, the term 'clapped out' can be used to describe anything from a car to a building or even a person’s state of feeling.
The phrases often convey a sense of something being old, broken, or beyond repair, hence the term 'clapped out' reflects a state of being 'worn out' in various contexts.
Conclusion
Understanding Australian slang, such as 'clapped out,' adds depth to one's appreciation of the language and culture. This term is widely used and can be found in various contexts, from describing old cars to expressing extreme fatigue. By grasping the nuances of such expressions, one can better relate to and communicate with Australian speakers.