A "cracking" question for the Aussies

[Ford2112]

13 hours ago, ha_banos said:

I don't get it

Smashing...pumpkins.

[loose_axle]

Gets used infrequently in our family. My 4 year old niece on her last birthday amused us all by stating on opening her first present, “oooh what a cracker!”

[Ken Gargett]

On 7/3/2024 at 1:07 PM, Fuzz said:

Definitely fallen out of usage among the younger generations.

Was at a friend's house a few weeks ago, and his son was showing me his Gundam model collection. I saw one of the ones that I gave him for Xmas, a real fancy one that I thought he'd struggle a bit with, but he did a great job. I pointed at it and said, "That's a cracker of a job there!". He quickly rushed over to the shelf and said, "Which one is cracking?!". Had to explain the terminology, and he just replied, "That's stupid".

Yep, fun Uncle Fuzz is too old now. 😔

what is a gundam model? 

but yes, common parlance of our generation. 

[Fuzz]

22 hours ago, Ken Gargett said:

what is a gundam model?

A Japanese model kit based on the Gundam anime/manga.They range from basic to the ridiculously expensive ($10k for the 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam gold plated edition).

[jazzboypro]

On 7/3/2024 at 5:54 AM, JohnS said:

Indeed, that's true...

“Cracking”: Learn the expression through definition and examples

What does “Cracking” mean?

The slang phrase "Cracking" means 'Describes something or someone as particularly good or excellent.' When someone uses "Cracking", they are emphasizing the high quality or exceptional nature of the subject they are referring to. It can be used to express admiration or excitement about something that is considered impressive or outstanding.

 

How is the expression used in real life?

 

Example

 

He's a cracking lad; we get along really well.

 

Example

 

That's a cracking idea; let's do it!

 

Example

 

She made a cracking dinner last night.

 

What context can I use each expression in?

 

1Describing a person or their qualities

 

He's a cracking lad; we get along really well.

 

She made a cracking dinner last night.

 

2Expressing enthusiasm or agreement

 

That's a cracking idea; let's do it!

 

The concert last night was cracking; the band was amazing!

 

3Describing the quality of something

 

The new car I bought is cracking; it's fast and reliable.

 

I had a cracking time at the party; the atmosphere was great.

 

Good things to know:

 

What is the origin of the phrase?

 

The term "cracking" originated in the UK and is commonly used in British English. It is believed to have originated from the expression 'crack on', which means to continue or proceed with determination.

 

Can the phrase be used on its own?

 

While "cracking" is often used in a sentence to describe something, it can also be used on its own to express enthusiasm or agreement. For example, if someone suggests a fun activity, you might respond with "Cracking!" to show your excitement.

 

Is the phrase offensive?

 

The phrase "cracking" is not offensive. It is a slang term used to describe something or someone as particularly good or excellent.

 

Audience for the phrase

 

"Cracking" is commonly used by English speakers in the UK. It is more likely to be understood and used by people familiar with British slang and culture.

 

Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?

 

"Cracking" is specific to the UK and is commonly used in British English.

 

Source: https://redkiwiapp.com/en/english-guide/slangs/cracking

That’s a cracking explanation !!