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The phrase “bail out” has become a common idiom in modern English, but its origins can be traced back to nautical terminology. The term originally referred to the act of using a bucket or bailer to remove water from a ship that was taking on too much water and at risk of sinking.
The ‘ladling of water from a boat’ is properly written as ‘bailing’ or ‘bailing out’. This derives from ‘baile’, which is an early name for a bucket or pail. It is tempting to imagine that a bail is some sort of cross between a bucket and a pail, but that’s just fancy.
In this context, bailing out means taking action to prevent the boat from sinking. Over time, the phrase evolved to refer to providing financial assistance or support to prevent someone or something from failing or collapsing.
Our guide to British slang words, lingo & expressions includes regional variations from the Queen's English, Cockney, to Welsh colloquialisms.
It's slang for "I'm leaving". You would usually use it with friends. "This party is boring. I'm bailing out." |@Jino67 Yes, that's the common use. You're getting away from a bad scene or situation. "Dude, don't bail on me. I need your help!"
13 paź 2020 · A list of delightfully descriptive British slang words and phrases taken from across the UK. Once you read this list, you’ll basically become British yourself. Did you know that the UK has around 40 different dialects of English, each with their own accents and slang?
6 paź 2023 · British sayings are idioms, slang, and turns of phrase that are unique to British culture and history. They draw heavily on local accents, dialects, and humor. As Brits use these sayings regularly, it’s a good idea to learn some if you want to speak like a local.
