Did a nice old lady say 'ope' and squeeze past you in the store? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression 'ope' is midwestern slang. People will usually use the word before they say something else. It's common for people to use it before they say 'sorry.' Some suggest that 'ope' is another word for 'oops,' 'ugh,' or 'uh huh.'
If you say 'ope' to someone in the Midwest, you're likely apologizing for your actions, albeit minor discretions. It's a way of expressing your concern to others. You can also use 'ope' to intensify an apologetic statement.
Example Usage
“Ope, sorry, I’m just going to sneak past ya here, don’t mind me. I won’t get in your way, I promise.”
“What do you mean you’re going away for Thanksgiving weekend? Ope, the whole family will be here, and everyone will miss you around the dinner table.”
“Ope, I’m sorry about the outburst. I didn’t mean it. Please can you forgive me? I’m just an old man, and I don’t think about what I say before I say it.”
“That’s alright, no bother, Ope, sorry, I thought we were going with you to the mission to hand everything out to the people. We’d also like to be a part of that, if possible.”
“Ope, sorry, I didn’t see you there. I’m so clumsy, bumping into people all the time. Please accept my apology.”
Origin
The expression ‘ope’ originates from slang used in the Midwestern United States, particularly in Wisconsin and surrounding areas. Originally, ‘ope’ is said to be a shortened pronunciation of ‘oops.’ Language experts agree that people who use a term frequently will eventually find ways to shorten it, even if it’s something that’s already short, like ‘oops.’
If you use ‘oops’ enough, it eventually turns to ‘oop’ and ‘ope.’ ‘Ope’ shows that shortening a single syllable to save the effort of saying the letter ‘s’ isn’t beyond reason. Another good example is the ‘shortening of ‘yes’ into ’yea.’
Some language experts believe ‘ope’ is the evolution of the word ‘oh’ with a ‘p’ tacked on to the end. Todd Van Luling wrote an article titled, ‘The Story of the World’s Most Annoying ‘Word’ You Can’t Stop Saying,’ where he refers to ‘ope’ in his work.
Phrases Similar to Ope
- Oops.
- Ugh.
- Uh huh.
Phrases Opposite to Ope
- N/A.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Ope.
Ways People May Say Ope Incorrectly
The term 'ope' is not an acronym and doesn't stand for anything. It's a unique term used exclusively in the Midwest and by people who grew up in the midwestern United States. The expression has versatile use and suits informal conversations. You wouldn't use it in professional language.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Ope
You can use the term 'ope' to replace expressions like 'oops' and 'uh huh' or 'ugh.' Typically. 'ope' is a niche term, isolated to use in the Midwestern United States, particularly around states like Wisconsin. Some people see it as country slang used by farmers and people behind the current English vernacular.
However, 'ope' is somewhat of a language tradition in the Midwest, and it's a well-understood and frequently used term to describe surprise, satisfaction, or agreement with others. You can use 'ope' in social situations in text messages and verbal exchanges. Both men and women can use the term as it's not a gender-specific term