🚪 The Bum’s Rush: Toasting and Tossing Troublesome Patrons 🍻
Ever been given “the bum’s rush”? If not, count yourself lucky! This age-old phrase, springing from the spirited taverns of 1920s America, illuminates society’s unconventional way to exit a scene—often delivered not so gently by the proverbial boot. Originating from the practice of bartenders and bouncers physically ejecting rowdy or non-paying customers, this idiom is as vivid as it is unceremonious.
Synonyms & Related Terms:
- Eject
- Boot out
- Throw out
- Kick out
- Expel
- Force out
Antonyms:
- Invite in
- Welcome
- Greet
- Receive
Humor-Filled Quotes:
“Getting the bum’s rush can be exhilarating, if you’re being ejected from a quantum physics lecture.” — Professor/Amateur Comedian
References in Literature & Pop Culture:
- Liam O’Flaherty captured the rough twist of fate in “The Informer” (1925): “They might give him ‘the bum’s rush,’ breaking his neck silently.”
- The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, where tumultuous parties could lead to quite the exit!
- Cheers (TV Series): Where everybody knows your name, but don’t cause trouble, lest you taste the bum’s rush!
Suggested Reads:
- The Hard-Boiled Detective by Raymond Chandler: Every bit the result of trouble causes trouble!
- One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey: Packed with rich narration of authority versus the unruly.
### Which of these is an idiom for being forcibly removed?
- [x] The bum’s rush
- [ ] Dancing on a waffle
- [ ] Flying with wingless kiwis
- [ ] Cooking on a snowman’s hat
> **Explanation:** "The bum’s rush" perfectly describes being forcibly removed, unlike the creative splurges involving waffles, kiwis, and snowmen!
### What could happen if a bar patron is unruly?
- [ ] They're applauded for their disruption
- [x] They get the bum’s rush
- [ ] They’re crowned bartender
- [ ] They receive a golden ticket
> **Explanation:** Unruly patrons most certainly get the bum’s rush, rather than accolades or royalty ties.
### True or False: "Getting the bum’s rush" means a warm welcome.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** False. It’s quite the opposite; it means an abrupt and often physical removal.
Remember, darlings, language is a living entity—expounded and evolved by our experiences. Keep exploring, questioning, and most importantly, have a laugh along the way.
- W. T. Wittywords, 05th October 2023
