The Origin of the Expression: 'Go Off the Rails'

Have you ever wondered about the origin of the phrase 'go off the rails'? This common expression has been around for over a century and has a fascinating history rooted in the early days of rail transportation. In this article, we will explore the etymology, early usage, and modern applications of this popular idiom.

The Train Derailment Connection

The expression 'go off the rails' is derived from a literal occurrence where trains would derail, meaning they would depart from their designated track. This literal use of the phrase first gained traction in the early 19th century, well before the widespread use of railroads. Even in the days when wooden rails were used for guiding and supporting various vehicles, including trams and mine carts, derailing was a real and common hazard.

Figurative Usage

Over time, the phrase evolved into a more metaphorical usage to describe situations or individuals who have become uncontrolled, chaotic, or no longer adhere to their expected course. This figurative interpretation emerged in the late 19th century, drawing a parallel between a train derailing and someone or something departing from a set path. The transition from the literal to the figurative usage can be traced back to early literature and historical records.

Early Usage in Literature

The first known written usage of the phrase in its figurative sense can be found in a letter from Sir Walter Scott, written in August 1828. In the letter, Scott refers to the Duke of Clarence as having "gone off at the rail completely," describing the situation as one where the Duke's duties as Lord High Admiral had led him into a state of mismanagement or dereliction of duty. This early example highlights the shift from a literal to a more metaphorical interpretation of the phrase.

The Duke of C[larence] has gone off at the rail completely the duties of Lord High Admiral have upset him. — Wilfred Partington, Sir Walters Post-Bag: More stories sidelights from his unpublished Letter-Books, 1932

Word Origins and Alternative Expressions

While 'go off the rails' is the most commonly used expression, there are several other idioms with similar meanings. For example, the phrase 'off the trolley' is sometimes used to describe someone who has become unstable or erratic. This expression may have emerged from the days when trolleys, or streetcars, were a common mode of transportation. Just as a trolley could derail, a person could metaphorically 'go off the trolley'—becoming unpredictable or mentally unhinged.

Off your trolley [ _ ]nOff your trolleyPosted by Baceseras on July 10 2009 at 19:44In Reply to: Off your trolly [ _ ] posted by RRC on July 09 2009 at 15:51:: : Ok I found out that the phrase go off the rails go off the rails 1. To go into a state of chaos, dysfunction, or disorder. Our project has started going off the rails ever since the manager up and quit last month. 2. To become crazy, eccentric, or mentally unhinged; to begin acting in an uncontrollable, inappropriate, and/or socially unacceptable manner. The youngest son started going off the rails shortly after getting into drugs in high also: go [ https://idioms....

These alternative expressions reaffirm the parallel between the physical derailing of trains and the metaphorical derailing of a person's behavior or a situation. The versatility of this idiom in describing various forms of disruption makes it a valuable addition to the English language.

Conclusion

The phrase 'go off the rails' has a rich history rooted in the engineering challenges of early rail transportation. Its evolution from a literal expression describing train derailing to a broader metaphor for chaos, disorder, and personal or situational dysfunction underscores the adaptability of language. Whether describing a project that spirals out of control or a person who has 'come unglued,' this idiom remains a useful and commonly used expression in English.