Coming Down the Pike vs. Coming Down the Pipe – Which is Correct?
In the English language, the phrases “coming down the pike” and “coming down the pipe” are often used interchangeably, but they have different connotations. Understanding the correct usage of these terms can aid in clearer communication and prevent common errors.
Coming down the pike or coming down the pipe – Which is Correct?
Both phrases are considered correct, yet they are used in different contexts. “Coming down the pike” typically refers to something that is approaching or expected in the future, often used in a more general sense. It originates from the term “pike,” which is short for “turnpike,” a road for which a toll is charged. On the other hand, “coming down the pipe” is often used in more specific fields, particularly in business or technology, meaning that something is being processed or is on its way through a pipeline.
| Phrase | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Coming down the pike | To indicate something is approaching or expected | “There are new regulations coming down the pike that we need to prepare for.” |
| Coming down the pipe | To indicate something is being processed or is in transit | “New software updates are coming down the pipe next month.” |
How to Use Coming down the pike
“Coming down the pike” is used when discussing future events or developments that are anticipated. It is informal and can be applied across various topics, including social, political, and personal contexts.
Example 1: “I heard there are exciting new projects coming down the pike at work.”
Example 2: “Changes in the industry are coming down the pike, and we need to adapt.”
Example 3: “The new season of the show is coming down the pike soon.”
What are the different forms of coming down the pike?
The phrase “coming down the pike” does not have standard verb forms as it is an idiomatic expression. It does, however, lend itself to variations like “came down the pike” for past contexts or “is coming down the pike” for present contexts.
Etymology of the phrase coming down the pike
The phrase originated in the early 20th century, derived from “pike,” which is a term for a toll road or highway. The use of the word “pike” in conjunction with “coming down” metaphorically suggests that something is approaching along the roadway.
How to Use Coming down the pipe
“Coming down the pipe” should be employed in contexts where you want to convey that something is being processed or is on its way in a direct manner, especially in business or technological settings.
Example 1: “We have a few new products coming down the pipe that will be launched next quarter.”
Example 2: “The final report is coming down the pipe by the end of the week.”
Example 3: “There are numerous features coming down the pipe in the next software version.”
What are the different forms of coming down the pipe?
Similar to “coming down the pike,” this phrase does not have standard verb forms but can be modified for different tenses, such as “came down the pipe” for past usage or “is coming down the pipe” for present discussions.
Etymology of the phrase coming down the pipe
The phrase “coming down the pipe” is derived from the construction and manufacturing industries, where materials and data are processed through pipelines. It indicates that something is currently in transit to reach its destination.
Practice Exercises
- We have a new strategy __________ that could change everything.
- Keep an eye out for new trends __________ this year.
- Updates on the project are __________ next week.
- Change is __________, so we need to be ready.
- Important information is __________ for review soon.
Answer Key
- coming down the pipe
- coming down the pike
- coming down the pipe
- coming down the pike
- coming down the pipe
Coming down the pike Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Approaching | To come near in time or space. |
| Imminent | About to happen; forthcoming. |
Coming down the pipe Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| In progress | Currently being developed or processed. |
| On the way | In transit or being delivered. |
Conclusion
In summary, while both “coming down the pike” and “coming down the pipe” are correct, their uses differ based on context. Understanding these distinctions allows for more precise communication in both casual and professional environments.
