In everyday English, especially in informal speech, the phrase put dibs on is often used in casual conversations among friends, siblings, coworkers, and even strangers. It’s a phrase that expresses a person’s intention to claim or reserve something before anyone else can. The meaning of put dibs on is both practical and cultural, rooted in childhood games and grown-up habits alike. Understanding what it means, how it is used, and in what situations it applies helps English learners, especially non-native speakers, to sound more fluent and natural.
Definition of Put Dibs On
The phrase put dibs on is an idiomatic expression in English. To put dibs on something means to make a verbal claim or reservation for it. When someone says, I put dibs on the front seat, they are declaring that they want to take the front seat and expect others to respect that claim.
Meaning in Context
Dibs itself is a slang word, often used in North America. It functions like a childhood code to mean I claim it first. The phrase is rarely formal and is most common in casual speech or friendly conversation. While not legally binding or official, it carries a sort of social agreement among those who recognize its meaning.
Origin and Etymology
The word dibs is believed to come from a 17th-century game involving the tossing of small objects. Over time, dibs evolved into a term used by children in playgrounds to claim first rights on toys, food, or turns. The full phrase put dibs on grew out of this tradition and became a widespread colloquialism.
Examples of Usage
- I put dibs on the last slice of pizza!– A casual way to claim the final piece of food.
- You can’t sit there, she already put dibs on that chair.– Respecting a prior claim.
- Put dibs on that blue sweater if you don’t want anyone else to take it.– Making a claim before others do.
Used in Social Settings
The phrase is often used among friends, siblings, or coworkers. It may come up when selecting car seats during a road trip, choosing items at a shared meal, or deciding who gets a turn in a game. It reflects a playful and non-serious way to negotiate for something you want.
Common Variations and Related Expressions
While put dibs on is the most common form, there are a few related phrases or slight variations that convey a similar meaning:
- Call dibs on – For example, I call dibs on the couch.
- I got first pick – Suggests you are choosing before others.
- I’m reserving this – A more formal or adult version of claiming something.
All of these expressions are used to indicate a preference or right to have something before others.
Grammatical Structure
The phrase put dibs on is typically used with a direct object. It follows the structure:
Subject + put + dibs + on + object
Examples:
- I put dibs on the window seat.
- He put dibs on the remote control.
It is most commonly used in the simple past tense (put), although it can be modified to other tenses in less frequent usage:
- Present: I’m putting dibs on that chair.
- Future: I will put dibs on that game when it comes out.
Politeness and Social Norms
While saying I put dibs on is not rude in most situations, it does rely on shared social understanding. In some formal or unfamiliar environments, this phrase may not be recognized or respected. It’s best used with people you know or in casual settings where informal speech is appropriate.
Sometimes, putting dibs on something may be viewed as pushy or entitled if done in the wrong context. It’s important to read the room and judge whether using such a phrase would be considered appropriate or annoying.
Cultural Relevance and Popularity
In many Western cultures, particularly in the United States and Canada, putting dibs on something is a common childhood behavior that often carries into adulthood. It reflects a sense of fairness, where people accept that whoever calls something first gets it. This unwritten rule creates a social contract, especially among friends or siblings, and avoids arguments.
The concept even appears in movies, TV shows, and books, often used in humorous scenes. Its presence in pop culture helps reinforce its popularity and understanding among native English speakers.
When Not to Use Put Dibs On
There are certain contexts where using the phrase put dibs on would be inappropriate:
- Formal business settings– Saying I put dibs on the corner office may seem unprofessional.
- Academic environments– It’s not suitable in essays, presentations, or interviews.
- Legal or contractual matters– Putting dibs does not hold any official value.
Instead, use more formal language like I would like to reserve, I’m interested in, or I would prefer.
Impact on Relationships
Using this phrase can be playful and fun, fostering a sense of shared language. However, if overused or used too aggressively, it can lead to disputes. When two people put dibs on the same thing, it may lead to negotiations, compromises, or sometimes arguments. Understanding how to use the phrase tactfully is key.
Positive Effects
- Builds camaraderie among peers
- Adds humor to social interactions
- Prevents confusion over who gets what
Negative Effects
- Can be viewed as childish or immature in some situations
- May cause conflict if others don’t agree
- Not universally understood by non-native speakers
The phrase put dibs on may seem like a simple and fun expression, but it carries a deep cultural context and practical usage in everyday English. Understanding its meaning, structure, and appropriate context helps English learners feel more confident in casual communication. Whether you are at a family dinner, riding with friends, or participating in a group activity, being able to say I put dibs on gives you an easy, lighthearted way to express your preference or make a claim. Just remember to use it wisely and in the right setting to ensure it adds to your conversation, not confusion.