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Other Side of the Tracks

What Does "Other Side of the Tracks" Mean?

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"Other side of the tracks" is an English idiom. It means "a metaphorical reference to a less affluent or less desirable neighbourhood or social background."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "other side of the tracks" used in a sentence:
  • He grew up on the other side of the tracks but worked hard to overcome adversity.
  • The school is committed to providing opportunities for students from the other side of the tracks.
  • The movie portrays a love story between characters from different social backgrounds—one from the other side of the tracks.
meaning for other side of the tracks

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Other Side of the Tracks" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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