Why is sausage considered 'businesslike'? 0 14

This is how we usually describe those who constantly justify themselves with a multitude of tasks. The meaning of this expression is intuitively clear. But what do you know about its origin? When did sausage become 'businesslike'?

The answers to these questions remain a mystery for many. There are several theories explaining how this unusual metaphor entered our lexicon. According to one of them, the word 'sausage' in this context is not related to the meat product. In the late 19th century, it referred to a cylindrical device resembling a sausage that was used to connect tram cars. Interestingly, it was often used by fare dodgers or those in a hurry to get to work. Hence, the expression 'business sausage' arose.

However, not all linguists agree with this version. Some, for example, believe that the word 'sausage' was previously used as a joking or derogatory nickname for Germans. In Vladimir Dahl's explanatory dictionary, such a definition is indeed provided. Based on this, one could assume that the phrase 'business sausage' was used when wanting to ironically comment on wealthy German businessmen.

Regardless of which version one chooses, this expression is an excellent example of how language evolves and acquires new meanings while remaining fascinating and mysterious.