turps
C1informal, colloquial, slang
Definition
Meaning
a colloquial or slang term for turpentine, a solvent derived from pine tree resin, often used in paint thinning or cleaning.
Also used informally in UK/Australian slang to refer to alcoholic drink, especially low-quality spirits.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
In its literal sense, 'turps' refers specifically to a type of solvent. In its slang sense, it is used humorously or disparagingly for strong drink, often implying it's harsh or unpleasant.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The literal meaning (solvent) is understood in both dialects, but the slang meaning for alcoholic drink is almost exclusively British, Australian, and New Zealand English. It is rarely used or understood in this way in American English.
Connotations
In UK/AU slang, often connotes rough, unrefined, or cheap alcohol. The literal meaning is neutral technical/DIY jargon.
Frequency
The slang usage is declining but still recognised, especially among older speakers in the UK. The literal usage is stable but niche.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[be] on the turps[verb] with turpsclean [object] with turpsVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"on the turps": (AU/UK informal) drinking heavily, especially over a period.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Potentially in paint/trade supply contexts.
Academic
Extremely rare; only in historical or chemical discussions of solvents.
Everyday
Informal, often humorous or self-deprecating reference to drinking (UK/AU). Literal use in DIY/home improvement contexts.
Technical
Used in painting, decorating, and woodworking contexts to refer to the solvent.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Be careful, that tin smells like turps.
- He used turps to clean his paintbrush.
- I need to buy some turps to thin this old paint.
- After cleaning with turps, make sure the room is well-ventilated.
- You can remove that sticky residue with a bit of turps on a rag.
- He was on the turps all weekend and felt terrible on Monday.
- The antique furniture restorer insisted on using pure turpentine, not just any turps.
- His descent into alcoholism began with a few casual nights on the turps after work.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine an artist cleaning a brush with TURPS and then taking a swig from the bottle – linking the strong solvent to strong drink.
Conceptual Metaphor
ALCOHOL IS A HARSH SOLVENT. The slang usage metaphorically equates the harsh, burning effect of cheap spirits with the properties of turpentine.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating 'turps' (slang) as "вода" or another generic drink term. It is not neutral.
- In the literal sense, ensure it is distinguished from 'разбавитель' (thinner) - it is a specific type.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'turps' in a formal context.
- Using the slang meaning in American English where it is not understood.
- Confusing 'turps' with 'meths' (methylated spirits).
Practice
Quiz
In which dialect is 'turps' commonly used as slang for alcoholic drink?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, 'turps' is an informal, colloquial shortening of 'turpentine'. The slang use for alcohol is decidedly informal slang.
No, this slang meaning is not standard in American English and would likely cause confusion. Americans would understand it only as a solvent.
Turpentine ('turps') is a natural product from pine resin. White spirit (or mineral spirits) is a petroleum-derived solvent. They are often used for similar purposes but have different properties.
It is informal and can be humorous or mildly derogatory, depending on context. It's best used in casual settings and not in reference to someone with serious alcohol dependency.