What does “Jonesing (For)” mean?
The phrase "Jonesing (For)" means 'really want something.' When someone says they are "Jonesing (For)" something, they are expressing a strong desire or craving for it. It can be used to describe a strong yearning for anything from food or a particular item, to an experience or a person.
How is the expression used in real life?
Learn when and how to use these expressions with these examples!
Example
I'm jonesing for a slice of pizza right now.
I'm jonesing for a slice of pizza right now.
Example
She's jonesing for a vacation on the beach.
She's jonesing for a vacation on the beach.
Example
He's been jonesing for a new phone for months.
He's been jonesing for a new phone for months.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Expressing a strong craving or desire
I'm jonesing for a slice of pizza right now.
I'm jonesing for a slice of pizza right now.
She's jonesing for a vacation on the beach.
She's jonesing for a vacation on the beach.
- 2Describing a long-standing desire or want
He's been jonesing for a new phone for months.
He's been jonesing for a new phone for months.
I've been jonesing for a promotion at work.
I've been jonesing for a promotion at work.
- 3Expressing a strong yearning or longing
She's jonesing for a hug from her loved ones.
She's jonesing for a hug from her loved ones.
I'm jonesing for some quality time with my friends.
I'm jonesing for some quality time with my friends.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "jonesing for" originated in the United States and is believed to have originated from the term 'Jones', which was a common surname in the African American community. It gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s and has since become a widely used slang expression.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "jonesing for" is typically used within a sentence to convey a strong desire for something. It is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "jonesing for" is not offensive. It is a slang term used to express a strong desire for something.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "jonesing for" is commonly used by English speakers in the United States. It is more prevalent among younger generations and those familiar with slang and informal expressions.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "jonesing for" is primarily used in the United States, but it may also be understood in other English-speaking regions due to its widespread usage in popular culture and media.
