For subscribers
‘Timepass’ is India’s way of lying flat
In smaller Indian cities and towns, where opportunities for advancement are few and dwindling, the noun is catching on among disillusioned youth.
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
The ennui of India’s unemployed youth has grown worse, says the writer. The unemployment rate among young college graduates was 29 per cent even in the post-pandemic economy.
PHOTO: AFP
Andy Mukherjee
Follow topic:
In the quirky world of Indian English, “timepass” is of relatively recent vintage. Its first known appearance was in a newspaper article from 1982. But like “prepone” – the opposite of postpone – the word has gained currency because of its sheer efficiency.
“What are you doing nowadays?” a friend inquires. “Timepass,” comes the reply.
