In England, what is commonly referred to as a "thong" is actually a G-string, a type of minimal underwear.
Understanding "Thongs" in England
The term "thong" carries a distinct meaning in the United Kingdom compared to other English-speaking countries like Australia or the United States. This regional difference often leads to confusion, particularly when discussing apparel.
Thongs as Underwear
In England, when someone mentions a "thong," they are almost exclusively referring to a type of underwear. Specifically, it denotes a G-string, a very minimal style of undergarment characterized by a narrow strip of fabric that passes between the buttocks, connecting to a waistband.
- Key Characteristic: Designed to be virtually invisible under clothing, especially tight-fitting outfits.
- Common Use: Fashion, swimwear (as part of a bikini bottom).
- Related Terms: Tanga, Brazilian brief, which offer slightly more coverage than a traditional G-string.
For a deeper dive into this style of underwear, you can refer to information on G-string underwear.
Thongs as Footwear: A Regional Distinction
The footwear that Australians commonly call "thongs" are known by a different name in England. These open-toed sandals are widely recognized by their distinctive design: a flat sole held on the foot by a Y-shaped strap passing between the first and second toes and around the sides of the foot.
In England, this type of footwear is universally known as flip-flops.
- Common Use: Casual wear, beachwear, poolside.
- Sound: The name "flip-flop" is an onomatopoeic reference to the sound they make when walking.
- Alternatives: While "flip-flops" is the dominant term, other less common regional terms might exist, but none are as prevalent.
You can learn more about this popular footwear by exploring resources on Flip-flops.
Regional Terminology Overview
To clarify the geographical differences, here's a quick comparison:
| Item | England | Australia / Some US Regions | Other US Regions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Footwear | Flip-flops | Thongs | Flip-flops, Jandal (NZ) |
| Underwear | Thong (G-string) | G-string, Thong | Thong, G-string |
Understanding these linguistic nuances is crucial for clear communication across different English-speaking cultures. For instance, asking for "thongs" in a shoe shop in London would likely result in confusion, as the assistant would expect you to be looking for underwear.
