Language is filled with idiomatic expressions that can sometimes be confusing, especially when they vary slightly between regions or dialects. One such phrase is get a word in edgeways or is it edgewise? English speakers may come across both versions in different contexts, and it’s natural to wonder which one is correct or more commonly accepted. The truth is that both versions are used, but their usage depends largely on geography and dialect. Understanding the subtle distinctions between edgeways and edgewise and how the phrase is used in conversation can help clarify any confusion and deepen your appreciation of English idioms.
Understanding the Phrase
What Does Get a Word in Edgeways/Edgewise Mean?
Before diving into the regional differences in usage, it’s helpful to understand the meaning of the idiom. To get a word in edgeways or edgewise is an expression used when someone finds it difficult to speak during a conversation, especially when another person is dominating the discussion. It’s often used in a humorous or slightly frustrated tone.
For example:
- She was talking so fast, I couldn’t get a word in edgeways!
- He went on and on I barely got a word in edgewise.
The idiom paints the image of trying to insert a word sideways into a fast-moving, wall-like conversation, almost like trying to slip into a crowded room through a narrow crack. It captures the essence of being excluded or overwhelmed in a social interaction.
Edgeways vs. Edgewise: Regional Usage
British English vs. American English
The main difference between edgeways and edgewise lies in the region. Edgeways is the preferred term in British English, while edgewise is more common in American English. Despite the spelling difference, both mean the same thing and are used in the exact same context.
Here’s how the usage differs:
- British English: Get a word in edgeways
- American English: Get a word in edgewise
This variation is similar to other British and American differences, such as towards vs. toward or amongst vs. among. Both forms are grammatically correct and understandable; the choice depends on where the speaker is from or the dialect they follow.
Usage in Everyday Speech
Although both versions are understood across English-speaking regions, people tend to use the form that is most natural to them based on exposure. In American media, books, and conversations, edgewise dominates. Meanwhile, British speakers typically stick to edgeways.
Is One Version More Correct?
Grammatical Perspective
From a grammatical standpoint, neither edgeways nor edgewise is incorrect. They both serve as adverbs and convey the same idea. The suffix -wise is more commonly used in American variants of adverbs, while -ways appears more often in British speech. Think of similar examples:
- Lengthwise vs. lengthways
- Crosswise vs. crossways
These pairs share the same definitions and only differ in formality or regional preferences. So, whether you use get a word in edgewise or get a word in edgeways, your sentence will be grammatically sound.
Perceived Formality
There is no strong difference in formality between the two expressions. Both are considered informal idioms and are mostly used in casual conversation or in writing that mimics speech, such as blogs, personal essays, or informal topics. You likely wouldn’t see this idiom in formal academic writing, regardless of the version you choose.
Common Usage Examples
Here are a few more examples that show the idiom used in different contexts:
- He was so excited to share his ideas that I couldn’t get a word in edgewise. (American English)
- Everyone was arguing at once I couldn’t get a word in edgeways. (British English)
- It’s impossible to talk to her when she’s ranting like that. You just can’t get a word in edgewise!
Notice how the meaning stays consistent across the examples, and the choice between edgewise and edgeways is simply based on region or preference.
Other Idioms with Regional Variations
Why Variations Exist
English is spoken all over the world, and it’s natural that different regions develop slightly different ways of saying the same thing. Idioms, in particular, often vary between dialects. These regional differences don’t usually affect meaning, but they can cause brief confusion if you’re unfamiliar with the variation.
Examples of Similar Variants
Here are a few more idioms or phrases with regional differences similar to edgeways vs. edgewise:
- At the weekend(British) vs.On the weekend(American)
- In hospital(British) vs.In the hospital(American)
- Different to(British) vs.Different from(American)
Just like edgeways and edgewise, none of these versions is incorrect they are just different ways of expressing the same idea depending on the regional norm.
Which Should You Use?
Context Matters
If you’re writing or speaking for an audience in the United States, edgewise is the better choice to sound natural and familiar. On the other hand, if your audience is in the UK or you are following British conventions, edgeways is more appropriate.
Consistency Is Key
While both forms are valid, it’s a good idea to be consistent. If you start using edgewise in a piece of writing, continue with that version throughout. Mixing dialects can come across as unpolished or confusing to some readers.
In the debate of edgewise vs. edgeways, the answer is that both are correct, depending on where you are or what kind of English you are using. Edgewise is the preferred form in American English, while edgeways is common in British English. The idiom get a word in edgewise or edgeways carries the same meaning regardless of the version: struggling to speak because someone else dominates the conversation. It’s an informal phrase that adds color to everyday speech and reflects the regional richness of the English language. Whether you favor edgewise or edgeways, both expressions are grammatically acceptable and widely understood, making this one of those charming quirks that showcase the diversity of English around the world.