In England, thongs are more commonly referred to as either G-strings or thongs. The term “thong” became widely used in the UK and other English speaking countries starting in the 1980s.
Quick Answers
Here are some quick answers to common questions about what thongs are called in England:
- The most common terms used in England are thong, G-string, and sometimes tanga.
- Thong tends to be the most widely used and understood term.
- G-string is also commonly used, though sometimes implies a more risque style.
- “Tanga” is occasionally used but is less common.
- Other less common terms include V-string, T-back, and booty floss.
- “Butt floss” is sometimes used humorously.
- The brands may use their own proprietary names like “v-string” or “tanga brief.”
The History and Origin of “Thong” in England
The thong traces its origins back to the loincloth worn in ancient civilizations around the world. Modern thong underwear first became popular in Brazil in the 1980s before spreading to other countries. Here’s a brief history of how the thong gained popularity in England:
- 1980s – Thongs gain popularity in Brazil, especially as swimwear.
- Early 1990s – Thongs start emerging as a fashion trend in the US and make their way to the UK.
- Mid 1990s – Thongs gain wider acceptance in England as sexy, provocative underwear. The term “thong” catches on.
- Early 2000s – Thongs become a mainstream underwear choice in England. The term is widely understood.
- Today – Thongs remain common in England. “G-string” is also widely used and understood.
So while thong underwear originated in Brazil, the term “thong” became the common way to refer to this style in England and the UK starting in the 1990s and continuing today.
Regional Variation in England
The terms used for thongs can vary somewhat across different regions of England:
- In London, thong and G-string are common.
- In Northern England, G-string or just string is more common.
- In the Midlands, thong tends to be the most common term.
- In the South, thong and G-string are prevalent.
However, thong remains widely understood across England. G-string has risen in usage and understanding since the 1990s. The term tanga or T-back tend to be more commonly used in branding. Overall, thong and G-string remain the most universally recognized in everyday English speech.
Differences in Terminology Between England and America
There are some subtle differences between England and America when it comes to thong terminology:
| Term | Use in England | Use in America |
|---|---|---|
| Thong | Very common | Less common, though understood |
| G-string | Very common | Common |
| Tanga | Sometimes used | Rarely used |
| T-back | Rarely used | Sometimes used |
As the table illustrates, “thong” is used more frequently in England, while in America “G-string” or “T-back” are more common in everyday usage.
Other English Speaking Countries
Here’s a look at what thongs are called in some other major English speaking countries:
- Australia: Thong is the most widely used and understood term
- Canada: Thong and G-string are common terms
- South Africa: G-string is more widely used than thong
- New Zealand: Thong is the most common term
Australia’s usage aligns very closely with England, while Canada uses a mix of both common terms. The usage varies across other English speaking regions.
Conclusion
In summary, the two most common terms used in England are “thong” and “G-string.” “Thong” tends to be the most universally understood and commonly used in everyday speech across England. “G-string” is also well-understood and used nearly as frequently. Other terms like “tanga” or “T-back” are sometimes seen but are less common. The terminology differs mildly between England and America, with “thong” favoring England and “G-string” or “T-back” favoring America. But overall, English speakers across England, America, and other major regions understand the terms “thong” and “G-string” interchangeably as referring to the same skimpy underwear garment.