Fell off the Back of a Lorry: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Fell off the Back of a Lorry” mean?

"Fell off the Back of a Lorry" means to acquire something illegally or without paying for it.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He always seems to have the latest gadgets that must have fallen off the back of a lorry.

Example

I suspect those designer handbags she's selling fell off the back of a lorry.

Example

The police caught a group of people selling fallen off the back of a lorry goods at the market

Is “Fell off the Back of a Lorry” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Fell off the Back of a Lorry” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Fell off the Back of a Lorry” effectively in context?

You can use "Fell off the Back of a Lorry" to suggest that someone has acquired something illegally or without paying for it. It is often used in a humorous or sarcastic way. For example, if a friend shows off a new expensive item, you might say, 'Oh, did that fall off the back of a lorry?'

• 1. Suspicion

  I suspect those designer handbags she's selling fell off the back of a lorry.

• 2. Illegal Goods

  The police caught a group of people selling fallen off the back of a lorry goods at the market.

• 3. Questionable Origins

  He always seems to have the latest gadgets that must have fallen off the back of a lorry.

Similar phrases to “Fell off the Back of a Lorry”:

Hot merchandise

Stolen goods

Example

He was arrested for selling hot merchandise.

Black market

An illegal market where goods are bought and sold without government regulation

Example

They bought their electronics on the black market.

Under the table

Done secretly or illegally, usually involving money or favors

Example

He paid the contractor under the table to avoid taxes.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Fell off the Back of a Lorry” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Fell off the Back of a Lorry" is unknown. It is believed to have originated in British English, and it refers to the idea that stolen or illegally obtained goods might have 'fallen off the back of a lorry' during transportation.

Is “Fell off the Back of a Lorry” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Fell off the Back of a Lorry" is not commonly used in everyday conversation outside of British English-speaking countries. However, it may be familiar to people who are familiar with British slang or have been exposed to British media.

What tone does “Fell off the Back of a Lorry” have?

"Fell off the Back of a Lorry" conveys a tone of suspicion or humor. It is often used to playfully suggest that someone has obtained something illegally or without paying for it.

Can “Fell off the Back of a Lorry” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Fell off the Back of a Lorry" is informal and typically used in casual conversations among friends or in a lighthearted context. It is not appropriate for formal or professional settings.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

The phrase "Fell off the Back of a Lorry" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I think those shoes she's wearing fell off the back of a lorry.' It is not typically used alone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• stolen
• purloined
• illegally obtained
• acquired through illicit means
• obtained without payment

Antonyms

• legitimate
• lawful
• purchased legally
• obtained through proper channels