Introduction
Have you ever heard someone say, “It’s coming down the pike” or “It’s coming down the pipe”? These expressions may sound similar, but they have slightly different meanings. In this article, we will explore the origins and uses of these phrases. So, let’s dive in!
The Origins
The phrase “coming down the pike” has its roots in the railroad industry. Pike refers to a turnpike or a toll road, and it was common for railroads to be built alongside these roads. So, when someone said, “It’s coming down the pike,” they were referring to something that was approaching or becoming more visible, just like a train coming down the tracks.
On the other hand, “coming down the pipe” is a variation of the original phrase. This variation emerged as a result of mishearing and misinterpretation over time. Instead of pike, it became pipe, which is a common misnomer.
Meaning and Usage
Both expressions are idiomatic and used to indicate that something is on its way or about to happen. They can be used interchangeably in most cases, but “coming down the pike” is more widely recognized and accepted.
These phrases are often used in informal conversations, but they can also be found in written content such as news articles, blogs, and books. They add a touch of familiarity and colloquialism to the language, making it more relatable to the readers or listeners.
Examples
Let’s take a look at a few examples to understand the usage of these phrases better:
Example 1:
John: Did you hear about the new project at work?
Sarah: Yes, I heard it’s coming down the pike. We should be prepared for some changes.
Example 2:
Reporter: The latest fashion trends are coming down the pipe, and designers are excited to showcase their new collections.
Conclusion
So, whether it’s “coming down the pike” or “coming down the pipe,” these expressions are here to stay. They are a part of the English language and have evolved over time. Now that you know their origins and meanings, you can confidently use them in your conversations or writing. Just remember to choose the one that feels most natural to you and enjoy expressing yourself in a relaxed and informal manner.