PhrasesHub

On the wagon

    Definitions

      • abstaining from alcohol
        Describing someone who has stopped drinking alcohol

      • sticking to a new behavior
        Referring to someone who is successfully maintaining a new habit or routine, such as a diet or exercise plan

    Examples of On the wagon

    • After a night of heavy drinking at his friend's bachelor party, John decided to get on the wagon and quit drinking for a month as a way to detoxify his body.

      The phrase "get on the wagon" is a figurative expression that means to stop drinking alcohol. It is believed to have originated in the late 1800s when people who stopped drinking were given a wagon to ride as a symbol of their sobriety. Today, it is a common idiom used to describe someone who has decided to abstain from alcohol for a certain period of time.

    • Sarah's husband has been on the wagon for two years now, and she's proud of him for being able to resist the temptation to drink.

      "On the wagon" means that someone has stopped drinking and is maintaining their sobriety. In this example, Sarah's husband has been able to stay sober for two years, which is a significant feat.

    • After her second DUI, Jane knew she had to get on the wagon and seek help for her alcohol addiction.

      In this example, "get on the wagon" is being used to describe someone who is serious about quitting drinking as a way to address a significant problem. Jane's repeated DUIs indicate a serious issue with alcohol, and she recognizes the need to seek help and quit drinking.

    • Tom has been on the wagon for three months now, and he's finding it much easier than he thought.

      "On the wagon" is used to describe someone who has been sober for a certain period of time. In this example, Tom has been abstaining from alcohol for three months and is finding it to be less difficult than he anticipated. This shows that he has adapted to a lifestyle without drinking and is making progress in his sobriety.

    • John's been on the wagon for a month now. He's finally getting his life back on track.

      The phrase "on the wagon" is an old-fashioned way of saying that someone has stopped drinking alcohol. John's decision to abstain from drinking has helped him get his life back on track.

    • After a wild weekend, Sarah decided to hop on the wagon. She's tired of waking up feeling groggy and hungover.

      This example illustrates how someone might make a decision to stop drinking after a particularly wild or excessive weekend. Sarah is tired of the negative effects that drinking too much has on her, so she has decided to stop for a while.

    • After ten years of heavy drinking, Mike realized it was time to get on the wagon. His health was deteriorating, and he knew he needed to make a change.

      This example highlights how someone might come to the realization that they need to stop drinking, especially after many years of excessive consumption. Mike's health concerns were a catalyst for his decision to stop drinking.

    • Emily has been on the wagon for six months now, and she's never felt better. She's proud of herself for sticking to her commitment.

      This final example shows that the benefits of stopping drinking can be significant, both physically and psychologically. Emily's decision to stop drinking has led to improved overall health and a sense of pride and accomplishment.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "on the wagon" can be used to describe someone who has stopped drinking alcohol or someone who is successfully maintaining a new habit or routine. It is often used in casual conversation to discuss personal lifestyle changes or to inquire about someone's sobriety or commitment to a new behavior.

    Origin of "On the wagon"

    The origin of the idiom "on the wagon" dates back to the early 20th century in the United States. It is believed to have originated from the use of wagons to transport prisoners to and from jail. In this context, prisoners who were not allowed to drink alcohol during their transportation were said to be "on the wagon." Over time, the phrase evolved to refer to anyone who was abstaining from alcohol, and later expanded to include other behaviors or habits. The idiom has become a common expression in English-speaking countries to discuss sobriety and commitment to a new behavior. Examples of its usage can be found in literature, film, and everyday conversation.