A "cracking" question for the Aussies

[TacoSauce]

Use of the word "cracking" as an adjective to describe something good or great seems to be commonplace in postings from Australian members. Is this expression ubiquitous across Australia, or is it a local expression used mainly in certain cities or regions?

[El Presidente]

I and my generation grew up with the term. It is in common use (for our demographic at least ) across the nation. 

To be honest I am unsure of those below say 35. 

[westg]

I find more English people use it than Aussies. 

[Fuzz]

1 hour ago, El Presidente said:

I and my generation grew up with the term. It is in common use (for our demographic at least ) across the nation. 

To be honest I am unsure of those below say 35. 

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. 😔

[Li Bai]

😂😂😂

[MagicalBikeRide]

Very commonly used in Ireland & UK too.

[SirVantes]

 

[JohnS]

8 hours ago, westg said:

I find more English people use it than Aussies. 

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

[ha_banos]

That's a smashing question! 

 

[99call]

11 hours ago, westg said:

I find more English people use it than Aussies. 

Yep. 

"Cracking show...old boy"

 

I find things get confusing, when someone serves up Cracking crackling

[ha_banos]

2 hours ago, 99call said:

Yep. 

"Cracking show...old boy"

Wonder if Kirby knows this one?...

[SirVantes]

2 hours ago, 99call said:

when someone serves up Cracking crackling

Or when the Irish serve up cracking craic.

[JohnS]

2 hours ago, 99call said:

Yep. 

"Cracking show...old boy"

There was and will always be only one Terry-Thomas!

[cnov]

Is this a post that was inspired by the Ninfa post I did in the smoking thread yesterday?

Can confirm I'm from the UK!

To clarify - Cracking = Top drawer

[99call]

7 hours ago, cnov said:

Cracking = Top drawer

Not to be confused with "Top Shelf" which is good but also naughty.

[BoliDan]

My irish cousins say "craic" with supposed similar meaning.

[ha_banos]

6 hours ago, BoliDan said:

My irish cousins say "craic" with supposed similar meaning.

No Nono. Craic is a good time. Which is kind of a segue from @99call 's top shelf...

[Habanoschris]

Many years ago, I heard Rob describe a good Cuban cigar as "cracking" & possibly as a "cracker" (if my memory serves). Well, despite being born and raised in NY, USA for whatever reason this term really spoke to me lol. 

Since then, I must admit when I've head an expectational cigar at times I've refenced it as cracking or as a cracker.    😚💨

[ha_banos]

4 hours ago, Habanoschris said:

Many years ago, I heard Rob describe a good Cuban cigar as "cracking" & possibly as a "cracker" (if my memory serves). Well, despite being born and raised in NY, USA for whatever reason this term really spoke to me lol. 

Since then, I must admit when I've head an expectational cigar at times I've refenced it as cracking or as a cracker.    😚💨

You're nothing more than a 🐑 sheep!

[Habanoschris]

Haha.. in my defense probably could be worse people than Rob to clone myself after . 🤪

"Cracker" of a comment by the way! lol

[Li Bai]

As a non-native English speaker I can't thank @TacoSauce enough for this cracking topic 👍

 

[Ford2112]

[ha_banos]

No one liked my smashing comment!? You lot genius do not see.

[Ford2112]

3 minutes ago, ha_banos said:

No one liked my smashing comment!? You lot genius do not see.

There

[ha_banos]

19 minutes ago, Ford2112 said:

There

I don't get it