The Origins and Usage of Phrases 'Right on the Money' and 'That’s the Ticket'

The English language is rich with idiomatic expressions, often with layered meanings and origins. Two such expressions are 'Right on the Money' and 'That’s the Ticket'. Understanding their provenance and applications can provide insights into cultural and linguistic evolution.

'That’s the Ticket'

The phrase 'That’s the ticket' is a colloquialism that has been in use since the early 19th century. Its exact origin is disputed, with several theories circulating among scholars and linguists.

The French Origin Theory: One theory posits that 'That’s the ticket' is a corruption of the French term 'C’est l’étiquette', meaning "It’s the proper course to pursue." This theory suggests a relationship between the phrase and the etiquette of the time, reflecting the desired course of action.

The Lottery and Charity Theory: Another theory suggests that 'That’s the ticket' comes from the custom of nineteenth-century charities issuing tickets to recipients for obtaining necessities like soup and coal. This theory argues that the phrase might have evolved from the activity of drawing a winning ticket in a lottery.

Political Ticket Theory: A less common but plausible theory is that the phrase refers to a political ticket. This interpretation imagines the phrase as a reference to a candidate or a political platform being satisfactory or winning.

'Right on the Money'

The phrase 'Right on the Money' is another idiomatic expression that has gained widespread usage, especially in a colloquial sense. It is often used to describe something that is accurate, precise, or exactly as intended.

Etymology and Origin: The phrase 'Right on the Money' is believed to have origins in 1940s America. Most sources agree that it is associated with horse racing, particularly with winning bets. The phrase gained traction as a way to describe a precise or accurate bet.

Cultural and Gambling Context: Horse racing and gambling are essential cultural contexts for this phrase. The idea of hitting the right amount or achieving a successful bet is reminiscent of the archetypal process of aiming for the center of a target in archery or shooting. The use of the phrase 'On the Money' to describe achieving a precise or successful outcome reflects this idea.

Examples in Usage

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) provides several examples of the phrase 'Right on the Money' in usage:

1944 - B. Stiles: 'Serenade to Big Bird': 'I checked the oil pressure and tuned the RPM on the money.'

1962 - New Yorker: 'You’ve got to be right on the money when you set it [sc. an aeroplane] down.'

1972 - Sat. Rev. U.S.: 'Peter Klappert’s article ‘Let Them Eat Wonderbread’ on a political double talk from a poet’s vantage point was right on the money.'

Conclusion

The English language is an ever-evolving ecosystem where phrases like 'Right on the Money' and 'That’s the Ticket' reflect its rich tapestry of meanings, origins, and cultural contexts. These expressions, often rooted in historical practices and evolving with time, continue to add nuance and depth to our communication.

FAQ

Q: What does 'That’s the Ticket' mean?

A: 'That’s the Ticket' is a colloquial term that means something is exactly what is desired or needed. The exact origin of the phrase is disputed but includes theories about French etiquette, lottery tickets, and political platforms.

Q: Where did 'Right on the Money' come from?

A: 'Right on the Money' originated in 1940s America, particularly in the context of horse racing and betting. It was used to describe a precise or accurate bet.

Q: How is 'Right on the Money' used today?

A: Today, 'Right on the Money' is used to describe something that is accurate, precise, or exactly as intended, often in a colloquial and informal context.