Culips Everyday English Podcast

Catch Word #284 – A dead ringer

Apr 17, 2025
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INSIGHT

Meaning and Origin of Dead Ringer

  • A "dead ringer" describes someone or something almost identical to another, not only in looks but also behavior or style.
  • The term originates from a 19th-century horse racing scam where a substituted horse was called a dead ringer.
ADVICE

When to Use Dead Ringer

  • Use "dead ringer" for lookalikes who are unrelated or for objects, not family members.
  • For family resemblance, prefer the phrase "spitting image."
ANECDOTE

Dead Ringer Confuses Coworkers

  • Two coworkers mistook a stranger at a café for their CFO because he was a dead ringer for their boss.
  • Such close resemblance can cause surprise and confusion known as an uncanny feeling.
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