Why We Say “Fish and Chips” and Not “Chips and Fish”

Have you ever wondered why some phrases in English just sound right in a certain order? Like why we say “fish and chips” instead of “chips and fish”?

Let’s dive into this fun little quirk of the English language.

The Mystery of Word Order

English has some phrases where the order of words is fixed. Switching them around sounds strange, like forcing a square peg into a round hole.

Here are a few reasons why this happens:

• It sounds better: Sometimes, the order of words just sounds nicer. “Fish and chips” rolls off the tongue more smoothly than “chips and fish.”
• It’s what we’re used to: We’ve heard “fish and chips” so many times that it feels right. Changing it is like trying to drive on the other side of the road—confusing.
• Main dish first: Often, the more important thing comes first. Fish is the star of the show, and chips are the tasty accompaniment.

Other Fun Examples

Here are some other phrases that have a fixed order:

• Salt and Vinegar: Imagine passing the “vinegar and salt” crisps around while lounging on the sofa. Weird, right?
• Gin and Tonic: Would the drink be the same if you ordered “tonic and gin,” I wonder?
• Black and White: We just don’t say “white and black.”  
• Bread and Butter: “Butter and bread” just sounds wrong. Bread comes first, always.
• Ladies and Gentlemen: Starting a speech with “Gentlemen and ladies” would surprise everyone.

Why It Matters

Using these fixed phrases can help you sound more natural when you speak English. Plus, it’s a fun way to impress your colleagues.

A Little Humour

Think of these phrases like a classic comedy duo. Imagine “fish and chips” like Batman and Robin (or Tom and Jerry). Batman (the fish) always comes first because he’s the main hero. Robin (the chips) is important too, but he’s the assistant. Saying “chips and fish” is like calling them “Robin and Batman.” It just doesn’t work!

So next time you enjoy some “fish and chips” with a sprinkle of “salt and vinegar,” remember you’re enjoying classic duos in the right order. 🍽️

Keep practising and having fun with English! Every little quirk you learn brings you closer to mastering the language. 

Which other phrases do you know that have a fixed order?