How Old is the Saying Ditto? Unpacking the History and Evolution of a Familiar Word

The saying “ditto,” used to indicate agreement or repetition, has a surprisingly rich history. Its usage as we understand it today dates back to the late 1670s in English. However, its origins lie earlier in 17th-century Italian. It was around this time that English speakers borrowed the term detto (or ditto in the Tuscan dialect), the past participle of dire (to say), and integrated it into their vocabulary to avoid repetition, particularly in lists and accounts.

The Journey of “Ditto”: From Italy to Everyday English

The word’s journey began in Italy, specifically in Venetian Italian. Ditto (or Dito) originated from the Latin dicere, dictum, meaning “to say, said,” and was employed to signify “already said” or “same thing.” It was often abbreviated as dº, Dº, do, or Do. Early adopters in English found it a convenient shorthand, especially when recording dates or repetitive items. This practical usage cemented its place in the language.

Early Applications: Dates and Lists

Initially, “ditto” was used to avoid repeating month names in a series of dates. Imagine a ledger from the 1600s; instead of writing “January” multiple times, a clerk would write “January” once and then use “ditto” for subsequent entries in the same month. This efficient application quickly expanded beyond dates.

Generalization and Broadening of Meaning

By the late 1600s, “ditto” began to shed its specificity. It transitioned from a tool for repeating dates to a general indicator of “the same as above” for any item on a list or in an account. This broadened applicability solidified its status as a useful and versatile term.

Unexpected Twist: Dittoes as Clothing

An interesting, and somewhat obscure, historical usage emerged in the late 1700s and persisted into the early 1800s. The word “dittoes” was used to describe a suit of men’s clothes made from the same color and fabric. This usage, though temporary, highlights the evolving nature of language.

Modern Usage: Agreement and Cultural Impact

Today, “ditto” is most commonly used as a verbal expression of agreement. Someone might say, “I love pizza!” and another person could respond, “Ditto!” signifying that they share the same sentiment. This colloquial usage is widespread in American English and beyond. The term has even found its way into popular culture, such as the famous scene in the movie “Ghost,” where Patrick Swayze uses “ditto” as a less vulnerable way to express his love for Demi Moore.

FAQs: Delving Deeper into “Ditto”

Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the history and usage of the word “ditto”:

1. Is “ditto” considered proper English? Yes, “ditto” is a legitimate word, recognized in dictionaries. It functions as a noun, often pluralized as “dittos,” and can also be used as a verb (e.g., “to ditto a statement”).

2. When did “ditto” become common slang? The generalized meaning of “the aforesaid, the same thing, same as above” was established in English by the 1670s, marking its transition into common usage.

3. Is “ditto” rude or impolite? While generally considered informal, “ditto” isn’t inherently rude. However, its curtness can sometimes be perceived as dismissive or lacking in enthusiasm, especially when a more elaborate response might be expected.

4. What are some synonyms for “ditto”? Numerous words and phrases can be used in place of “ditto,” including: “same here,” “likewise,” “identical,” “the same,” “agreement,” “duplicate,” “copy,” and even the slang term “me too.”

5. What does “ditto” mean in the context of Pokemon? In the Pokemon universe, Ditto is a unique creature known for its ability to transform into other Pokemon. This reflects the word’s meaning of “the same” or “a copy.” Exploring the world of Pokemon can foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills in players of all ages, similar to the learning experiences studied at the Games Learning Society.

6. How did the “ditto mark” originate? The ditto mark (〃) is a visual representation of the word “ditto,” used to indicate that a word or phrase should be repeated. Its exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, but it evolved alongside the written use of “ditto” as a shorthand.

7. Is the word “ditto” used in other languages? While the English word “ditto” is derived from Italian, other languages have their own equivalent terms for expressing agreement or repetition. For example, in Spanish, “ídem” is often used.

8. What is the origin of the phrase “ditto machine”? The “ditto machine” was a type of duplicator that used spirit duplication to make copies. The term “ditto” was applied because the machine essentially created “dittos” or copies of an original document.

9. Does “ditto” mean “I love you”? The use of “ditto” in the film “Ghost” to mean “I love you” is a specific and somewhat ironic usage. While it doesn’t universally mean “I love you,” the film helped popularize its use as a less vulnerable expression of affection.

10. How is “ditto” used in accounting or bookkeeping? In accounting, “ditto” (or its abbreviation “do.”) is used to avoid repeating information, such as account names or dates, in ledgers and financial statements.

11. Can “ditto” be used as a verb? Yes, “ditto” can be used as a verb, meaning to repeat or imitate something. For example, “He dittoed her argument.”

12. What is the difference between “ditto” and “idem”? Both “ditto” and “idem” are used to indicate repetition, but “idem” is generally considered more formal and is often used in academic or legal contexts.

13. How does the evolution of “ditto” reflect changes in communication? The evolution of “ditto” from a specific shorthand for dates to a general expression of agreement reflects broader trends in language toward simplification and efficiency in communication.

14. Is there a connection between “ditto” and “dittography”? Yes, there is a connection. A similar but unrelated word is dittography. It is the accidental or inadvertent repetition of a letter, word, or phrase in writing or typing.

15. How do cultural references impact the meaning of “ditto”? Pop culture references, such as its use in the movie “Ghost” or in the Pokemon franchise, can significantly impact the understanding and usage of “ditto,” adding layers of meaning and association to the word. Understanding how language, like the word “ditto”, evolves through usage, cultural shifts, and even gameplay is essential. You can learn more about how games and interactive media can transform learning at GamesLearningSociety.org.