Definition of cotton on

cotton onphrasal verb

bông trên

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The phrase "cotton on" is an Australian and New Zealand English slang term, which means to understand or to be able to comprehend a situation or concept. The expression originated in the mid-twentieth century, and its popularity can be traced back to the cotton-picking industry in Australia during the 1940s. During this time, migrant workers were employed to pick cotton in rural areas of Australia. These workers initially struggled to comprehend the process and the specific techniques required for picking the cotton bolls. As they gradually got the hang of it, they realized that they had "cotten on" to the process. The term caught on and has been a part of Australian and New Zealand English slang ever since. Its usage is still prevalent in both countries today, primarily in informal settings, such as casual conversations and everyday interactions. The expression has also gained popularity in other English-speaking countries, including the UK and Ireland. The exact origins of the expression may be debated, but its widespread usage is indicative of the fact that the term has become a part of the Australian and New Zealand vernacular. It is a unique reflection of the rich cultural heritage and slang terminology that characterizes these countries' English dialects.

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Example:
  • The white cotton shirt felt soft against my skin as I slipped it over my head.

    Chiếc áo sơ mi cotton trắng mềm mại khi tôi mặc vào người.

  • The bed sheets were made of luxurious cotton, promising a cozy and comfortable night's sleep.

    Ga trải giường được làm từ vải cotton sang trọng, hứa hẹn mang đến cho bạn một đêm ngủ ấm áp và thoải mái.

  • The cotton dress molded to her curves, creating a flattering silhouette that turned heads.

    Chiếc váy cotton ôm sát đường cong của cô, tạo nên một hình bóng tôn dáng khiến ai cũng phải ngoái nhìn.

  • The cotton fabric of the towel was thin and breathable, perfect for drying off after a refreshing swim.

    Chất liệu vải cotton của khăn mỏng và thoáng khí, hoàn hảo để lau khô người sau khi bơi sảng khoái.

  • The cotton t-shirt was the perfect blank canvas for a vibrant design, making it a trendy and stylish choice.

    Áo phông cotton là nền tảng hoàn hảo cho một thiết kế sống động, khiến nó trở thành lựa chọn hợp thời trang và phong cách.

  • The cotton pants were flowy and comfortable, ideal for a hot summer day at the beach.

    Chiếc quần cotton mềm mại và thoải mái, lý tưởng cho ngày hè nóng nực trên bãi biển.

  • The cotton handkerchief was tightly woven, allowing it to hold moisture without becoming saturated.

    Chiếc khăn tay bằng cotton được dệt chặt, giúp giữ độ ẩm mà không bị ướt.

  • The cotton sack was filled with fresh produce from the local farmers' market.

    Chiếc túi vải đựng đầy nông sản tươi từ chợ nông sản địa phương.

  • The cotton couch cover was machine-washable, making it easy to keep clean and stylish.

    Vỏ ghế sofa bằng cotton có thể giặt bằng máy, giúp dễ dàng vệ sinh và giữ gìn vẻ đẹp.

  • The cotton pillowcase was smooth and cool against my cheek as I drifted off to sleep at night.

    Vỏ gối bằng cotton mịn màng và mát lạnh khi áp vào má tôi khi tôi chìm vào giấc ngủ vào ban đêm.