Understanding the meaning behind common phrases can be a fascinating journey into the history and culture of language. One such phrase, “What does this is for the birds,” has become a popular expression of disapproval or dismissal.
What Does “This Is For The Birds” Mean?
This phrase is used to express that something is worthless, pointless, or of little value. It’s a way of saying that something is a waste of time, effort, or money.
Origins of the Phrase
The exact origins of the phrase are uncertain, but it likely emerged in the early 20th century. Some believe it has roots in the practice of feeding birds, where people would toss scraps of food to them. If something was considered “for the birds,” it was essentially being compared to something that was only good enough for birds to eat, implying it lacked value for humans.
What Does “This Is For The Birds” Mean?
The phrase “This is for the birds” is a common idiom used to express disapproval, frustration, or disdain for something perceived as worthless, pointless, or ridiculous. It’s a colorful expression that evokes a sense of amusement and exasperation, often suggesting that the subject matter is as useless as bird droppings.
Origins and History
The exact origins of the phrase are uncertain, but it likely emerged in the early 20th century. Some theories suggest it stems from the practice of throwing birdseed at unwanted individuals as a form of insult or mockery. Others believe it relates to the perceived uselessness of bird droppings, which were often seen as a nuisance.
Meaning and Usage
The phrase “This is for the birds” carries a strong negative connotation and is typically used in situations where someone feels: (See Also: Where Does The Birds And The Bees Come From)
- Disappointed or frustrated with a situation or outcome
- Convinced that something is pointless or worthless
- Angry or annoyed by someone’s actions or words
It can be used both literally and figuratively. For example:
Literal Usage: “I spent all day on this project, and it turned out to be for the birds!” (Meaning the project was a waste of time and effort)
Figurative Usage: “This new policy is for the birds! It makes absolutely no sense.” (Meaning the policy is illogical and ineffective)
Variations and Similar Expressions
The phrase “This is for the birds” has several variations and similar expressions, including:
- This is a load of birdseed
- This is a waste of time
- This is a joke
- This is ridiculous
Cultural Impact
The phrase “This is for the birds” has become a widely recognized idiom in American English and has even made its way into popular culture. It has been used in movies, TV shows, and songs, further solidifying its place in the language. (See Also: How To Remove Birds From Inside Roof)
Conclusion
“This is for the birds” is a colorful and expressive idiom that conveys a sense of disapproval and frustration. Its origins may be unclear, but its meaning is widely understood. Whether used literally or figuratively, the phrase effectively communicates the speaker’s disdain for something perceived as worthless or pointless.
Frequently Asked Questions About “What Does This Is For The Birds Mean?”
What does “This is for the birds” mean?
The phrase “This is for the birds” is an idiom that means something is worthless, useless, or of poor quality. It’s often used to express disappointment or frustration.
Where did the phrase “This is for the birds” originate?
The exact origin of the phrase is uncertain, but it’s believed to have emerged in the early 20th century. Some theories suggest it relates to the idea of birds being attracted to trash or leftovers, implying that something is undesirable.
Can “This is for the birds” be used in a humorous way?
Yes, the phrase can be used humorously, especially when exaggerating the level of disappointment or frustration. For example, someone might say “This is for the birds!” after accidentally dropping their ice cream. (See Also: How Many Times A Year Do Birds Have Babies)
Are there any similar idioms?
Yes, there are several similar idioms, such as “This is a waste of time,” “This is a load of rubbish,” or “This is junk.”
How can I use “This is for the birds” in a sentence?
Here are a few examples: “That movie was this is for the birds!” or “This new gadget is this is for the birds; it doesn’t even work properly.”
