the fanny

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the fanny" is correct and usable in written English, though it may have different connotations depending on the region.
It can be used in contexts related to anatomy or informal discussions, particularly in British English where it refers to the buttocks. Example: "After sitting for so long, my fanny started to hurt."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Let's give the fanny pack some respect, people.

The New York Times

'It just needs a bit of a kick up the fanny, a bit of oomph.

The Guardian

I peel open the fanny pack and slide out the gun".

The Guardian - Books

And who was heartless enough to swipe the $10,000 from the fanny pack fastened to her waist?

The New York Times

The folding design of the Fanny Wangs will be instantly recognizable to any Beats Studio headphone owner.

The New York Times

But Acapulco is having its second act, reappearing from the fanny pack-strewn beaches to recapture its faded Hollywood glory.

The New York Times - Travel

And there's no question that there is some ego involved; it's a pat on the fanny from your fellow workers.

The New York Times

In 1996 the mission took over the Fanny Crosby Memorial Home in Bridgeport, which provided housing for the elderly.

The New York Times

From the fanny perspective, which is the only perspective for most women, some of the wrap skirts looked clunky.

The New York Times

Some of the girls in the group refer to themselves as the female or the fanny defence league.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

There's nothing better than a St Bernard lick to zip open the fanny pack.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be mindful of your audience when using the term "the fanny", as it has different meanings in British and American English. In British English, it refers to the buttocks, whereas in American English, it's a vulgar term for female genitalia.

Common error

Avoid using "the fanny" in formal American contexts unless you intend to be vulgar. Opt for more neutral terms like "buttocks" or "rear end" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the fanny" functions as a noun phrase, referring to a specific body part. Ludwig examples show its use in varied contexts, from describing clothing fit to discussing physical actions like slapping.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

11%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the fanny" presents a linguistic challenge due to its regional variations in meaning. While grammatically correct, its appropriateness hinges on context, with Ludwig showcasing examples across diverse sources like News & Media, Wiki and Science. The phrase functions primarily as a noun phrase, but its informality and potential for vulgarity in American English necessitate careful consideration of audience and intent. According to Ludwig, while "the fanny" is deemed correct and usable, its connotations vary significantly. Therefore, users should exercise caution and opt for alternatives like "the buttocks" or "the rear end" when a more neutral register is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the buttocks

A more formal and widely understood term for the same body part.

the rear end

A common euphemism, suitable for general conversation.

the backside

Another widely used and easily understood euphemism.

the bum

A British English term for the buttocks, similar in register to "fanny" in that dialect.

the behind

A common and easily understood euphemism.

the posterior

A more anatomical term for the buttocks, less common in everyday speech.

the bottom

A simple and direct term, often used with children.

the rear

A slightly more formal term than "rear end".

the seat

Refers to the part of the body one sits on.

the tush

A slang term for buttocks

FAQs

What does "the fanny" mean?

The meaning of "the fanny" depends on the regional context. In British English, it refers to the buttocks, while in American English, it's a vulgar term for female genitalia.

How should I use "the fanny" in a sentence?

In British English, you might say, "Sit on "the fanny" and eat your lunch." However, avoid using it in American English unless you intend to use a vulgar term.

What are some alternatives to "the fanny"?

Depending on the context, you could use "the buttocks", "the rear end", or "the bottom" instead.

Is it appropriate to use "the fanny" in formal writing?

Generally, no. It's best to use more formal alternatives like "the buttocks" or "the posterior" in formal contexts.