Have you ever heard the slang expression "Go postal"? While it might sound like it refers to "going to the post office," its slang meaning is entirely different. This phrase is sometimes heard in casual conversations, movies, or TV shows, but not everyone fully understands its background or nuance.
In this article, we’ll explore the meaning, origin, usage examples, and potential misunderstandings of "Go postal." By understanding this phrase, you can improve your comprehension of natural English conversations.
Contents
1. What Does "Go Postal" Mean?
(1) Basic Meaning and Usage
"Go postal," when used as slang, means "to become extremely angry or lose control to the point of violent outburst." The phrase originally emerged to describe situations where someone, often due to excessive stress or frustration, reacts aggressively or irrationally. It is commonly used to depict someone reaching their breaking point.
For example: "He was so upset about his test scores, he was about to go postal." This usage reflects an extreme emotional reaction.
(2) Nuance of the Slang: Anger and Violence
"Go postal" conveys more than just anger—it suggests an uncontrollable, explosive outburst. It often describes someone who is typically calm reaching a state of extreme frustration or rage. Because of its intense connotation, care should be taken when using this phrase, as it might be perceived as inappropriate or offensive depending on the context.
2. Why Does "Go Postal" Have This Meaning? Exploring Its Origins
(1) Workplace Incidents and the Birth of the Phrase
The origin of "Go postal" is tied to a series of workplace shootings in the United States postal service during the late 1980s and early 1990s. These incidents, often attributed to high-stress environments and unresolved grievances, garnered widespread media attention.
As these events became more publicized, the term "go postal" emerged as a way to describe someone succumbing to overwhelming pressure and acting out violently.
(2) Media Sensationalism and Cultural Impact
The media’s sensational coverage of these events cemented the stereotype of "postal workers being prone to snapping." The phrase was later adopted in movies and TV shows to portray characters losing their temper or exploding with rage, which helped "go postal" gain popularity as a slang term.
This association resonated with many people, symbolizing the cumulative effects of daily stress leading to a breaking point. As a result, "go postal" became a widely recognized slang expression, embodying societal concerns about workplace stress and mental health.
3. Examples of "Go Postal" in Use
(1) Examples in Everyday Conversations
"Go postal" is often used to express frustration or anger that’s about to boil over. For instance:
- "I'm going to go postal if they ask me to do that again!"
(If they ask me to do that again, I’ll lose it!) - "He went postal when he found out his car was towed."
(He was furious when he found out his car had been towed.)
In these examples, "go postal" highlights strong emotional reactions to specific situations in daily life.
(2) Examples in Movies and TV Shows
In fictional settings, "go postal" is often used to depict characters losing control due to anger or stress. For example:
- "He's about to go postal!"
(Used in a tense workplace scene to show a character on the verge of exploding with anger.) - "He went completely postal."
(In an action movie or thriller, describing a protagonist pushed to their breaking point.)
In these contexts, "go postal" effectively conveys the character's psychological state or adds drama to the storyline.
(3) Caution: Situations to Avoid Using "Go Postal"
Because of its strong connotation, "go postal" should be used carefully. Here are some key considerations:
- Avoid using it in situations involving actual violence or serious anger, as it may be perceived as insensitive.
- Refrain from using it in formal settings, such as workplaces or public speeches.
- Stick to informal, friendly conversations or fictional narratives where the exaggeration is understood and acceptable.
Using this slang inappropriately can lead to misunderstandings, so it’s essential to consider the time, place, and audience before using it.
4. Conclusion: Understanding and Using "Go Postal" Appropriately
"Go postal" is a powerful slang expression with a strong backstory and nuanced meaning. While it can be a colorful way to describe extreme anger or frustration, it’s not a phrase to use lightly. Its origins in workplace violence and its intense connotation make it a potentially sensitive term.
By understanding the background and context of "go postal," you can appreciate its impact and use it appropriately in the right settings. Be mindful of the audience and situation, and enjoy the depth and color that slang like this can bring to informal conversations or fictional storytelling!