From/on the wrong side of the tracks

usgb
phrase

Coming from a poor or low social status background.

John always felt out of place at the university, as he was from the wrong side of the tracks
Visual representation of "from/on the wrong side of the tracks" - Coming from a poor or low social status background

Often appears as...

  • come from the wrong side of the tracks
  • born on the wrong side of the tracks

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "from/on the wrong side of the tracks"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Class Division

This phrase highlights socioeconomic disparities and is often used to describe societal divisions.

Illustration for Class Division
Despite her success, she often mentioned being from the wrong side of the tracks.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Idiomatic Geography

The 'tracks' refer to train tracks, which physically divided towns into richer and poorer areas in the past.

Illustration for Idiomatic Geography
He's proud of making it big despite coming from the wrong side of the tracks.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Metaphorical Use

Used metaphorically, it's not about literal geography, but a commentary on class and origins.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
She felt his family saw her as a girl from the wrong side of the tracks.
Visual representation of the word "From/on the wrong side of the tracks"

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