Introduction
In the culinary world and beyond, the term “86” holds a significant place in the lexicon, often leaving many people pondering its origins and implications. To “86 somebody” typically means to remove or dismiss a person from a situation, usually in a way that is abrupt or final. While it is most commonly used in restaurants and bars, its applications and meanings can vary across different contexts.
Origin of the Term
The origin of the term “86” is not definitively known, but several theories suggest its roots.
- Delmonico’s Restaurant: One popular theory attributes the term to Delmonico’s, a New York City restaurant from the 1800s. According to this account, the restaurant would instruct its staff to “86 the item” from the menu when it ran out.
- Prohibition: Another theory links the term to Prohibition in the 1920s when police would raid speakeasies. The term “86” was allegedly used as a code to indicate that a police raid was imminent and that patrons should leave.
- Military Origins: Some believe the term has military origins, referencing the fact that soldiers would be ejected (or “86ed”) from duty when they were unfit to serve.
Whether any of these accounts are true, the term has undeniably gained a foothold in modern vernacular.
Modern Uses of ’86’
In contemporary usage, “86” frequently appears in restaurant settings, but it has also evolved to encompass a variety of scenarios. Here are some examples of how it can be applied:
- Bars and Restaurants: When a bar runs out of a specific drink or food item, the staff might announce it as “86ed”. This communicates quickly to the team that they need to remove that item from the menu or stop serving it.
- Workplace Dismissals: In office environments, to “86” someone might mean to terminate their employment or to remove them from a project completely.
- Social Situations: In social contexts, a person might be “86ed” when they are asked not to return to a party or gathering, often for behavioral reasons.
Implications of ’86ing’
While the term might sound casual, the implications of “86ing” someone can be significant. Consider the various impacts:
- Professional Relationships: To be “86ed” from a workplace can have serious implications on one’s career, potentially affecting future job opportunities.
- Sociocultural Context: Being “86ed” from a social circle may lead to feelings of isolation and alienation, which could impact one’s mental health.
- Reputation: In restaurants and bars, being “86ed” can tarnish a customer’s reputation, especially if their behavior led to the ejection.
Case Studies
To better understand the implications of “86ing” someone, let’s explore a couple of hypothetical case studies.
Case Study 1: Jane’s Café
At Jane’s Café, a popular brunch spot, a customer is known for their disruptive behavior. After several warnings, the staff decides to “86” the individual from the premises. Following this decision, while the café’s environment improves significantly, they receive backlash on social media from friends who see the move as harsh.
Case Study 2: The Corporate Office
A project manager, Tom, is “86ed” from a key project after consistently missing deadlines and failing to communicate effectively. While the team experiences immediate relief and improved productivity, Tom’s reputation suffers significantly, affecting his future career prospects.
Statistics on Workplace Dismissal
According to recent employment studies:
- About 69% of employees have witnessed a colleague being “86ed” or terminated in a professional setting.
- 1 in 3 people who have been “86ed” report feelings of anxiety and stress post-dismissal.
- Companies that regularly address behavioral issues tend to have a 25% lower employee turnover rate.
Conclusion
To “86 somebody” is not just a restaurant slang; it is a phrase that encapsulates the gravity of removing someone from a situation, with various social, professional, and emotional consequences. Understanding its implications can help individuals and organizations navigate the complexities of interactions in both personal and professional settings.
