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FLIPSIDE
Hobson's ChoiceBy Dilip Bobb
The annual edition of Hobson's Jobson is an eagerly
awaited event containing, as it does, phrases and words not found in regular dictionaries
but which are in contemporary usage. India and Indian-related phrases generally feature
prominently. The latest edition, about to be released, is no different. Here's a sneaky
preview of the contents which, as is evident, contain words and phrases in current usage
and are also unique in terms of their multiple interpretations.
War-like: Refers to situation where one side
leaves its flanks open, allows the enemy enough time to settle in and get snug and
comfortable, before becoming remotely aware of the danger. The result is aware, akin to a
war, but not an all-out one. Will only cease being "war-like" when the intruders
are all out. In the 1962 version of this volume, such a situation was termed a
"Himalayan Blunder".
Taken for a Ride: Whether in vernacular, or vehicular, refers to a
short journey, usually by bus, ending in transports of premature delight. In ancient
times, the vehicle used was a Trojan Horse, where the enemy had hidden motives. In this
case, the moral of the story, as far as Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was concerned,
is: "Ride comes before a fall."
Clean Chit: Adds a new twist to the meaning of "defence
minister". Replaces "By George" as a catch-all phrase used in ancient times
to refer to an idiotic/naive/incomprehensible/irresponsible statement made by a figure of
authority. Its contemporary meaning refers to any statement on the subject of Nawaz Sharif
and the ISI being termed a figure of speech, but which actually turns out to be a figure
of ridicule.
Mixed Metaphors: Refers to the practice of seeking peace while
talking war, an art that the prime minister is trying to perfect by inviting an emissary
from the enemy camp. This sending of mixed signals, earlier witnessed in the handling of
Jayalalitha, is peculiar to the BJP. The latest version, though laudable in practice, in
reality is a little like inviting Shoaib Akhtar to a batting practice session by the
Indian team in the interest of fair play.
Hot Pursuit: Activity undertaken by the Opposition at the height
of summer which involves chasing and attacking members of the caretaker ruling party,
preferably in front of television cameras. It is an activity most visibly being undertaken
by Congress' shadow foreign minister K. Natwar Singh, who is using the Kargil Stinger to
launch an offensive against the Government, accusing it of Drass Negligence. However, can
backfire if ballots rather than bullets are the prime target.
Collateral Damage: That which has seemingly affected Laloo Prasad
Yadav who has demanded that the cricket World Cup telecast be banned till the Kargil
situation eases.
Raw Intelligence: Wherein country gets a raw deal, lacking
information vital to security through raw or amateur organisation. Can also refer to as
Being in the Raw, which often happens when persistently getting caught with your pants
down. |
