The Eagle Has Landed: A Phrase in Trinidad and Tobago's Banking CultureCEFR B1
29 Nov 2023
Adapted from Janine Mendes-Franco, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Chris Boland, Unsplash
AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.
In Trinidad and Tobago, the phrase "the eagle has landed" symbolizes the arrival of paychecks. Originating from NASA's Apollo 11 mission, the phrase has transformed into a local idiom that marks the end of the month when salaries are expected. It has gained traction on social media, where workers express enthusiasm for receiving their wages amidst the festive expenses of the holiday season.
The excitement surrounding payday leads to a vibrant culture of meme-making among netizens. Many share humorous messages and creative graphics that depict the eagle in connection with their bank logos. This playful adaptation serves not only to celebrate financial arrivals but also to foster community and connection through shared experiences.
However, the speed of payments can vary across banks, causing some employees to comment humorously on delays. The phrase is often modified in these situations to reflect frustration, showcasing how language evolves within a cultural context. Overall, the combination of humor and creativity enhances workplace communication in Trinidad and Tobago.
Difficult words
- idiom — A phrase with a specific meaning in a culture.
- symbolize — To represent or stand for something else.symbolizes
- enthusiasm — Strong excitement or interest in something.
- vibrant — Full of life, energy, or color.
- adaptation — The process of changing to fit new conditions.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How does humor affect workplace communication?
- Why do you think idioms develop in specific cultures?
- What other phrases do you know that symbolize important events?
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