“Catch you on the flip side” sounds a lot like “Catch you later”. But while it does mean the same thing, it has different origins, and that’s what this article will be exploring. We’ll begin with the meaning of the phrase, followed by the origin story, and finally, we’ll cover how to use the phrase, through the help of a few examples. Let’s get to it.
What’s the meaning of the phrase “catch you on the flip side”?
Simply put, the phrase “catch you on the flip side” means the same as “catch you later”, “see you later” or “see you soon”. It’s just an informal, casual way of saying goodbye, and is used when you expect to see that person or those people again soon.
What’s the origin of the phrase “catch you on the flip side”?
While the precise origin of the phrase “catch you on the flip side” has not been confirmed, it is believed that the element of the phrase “on the flip side” refers to the B-side of vinyl records. It has been suggested that when DJs on radio stations say goodbye at the end of their session they used the phrase as an informal and casual way to say “see you later” or “see you soon” under the knowledge that their regular listeners will be hearing again from them soon. The term is derived from the 1960s, but it’s still very much in use to this day.
For those of you who don’t already know, the B-side of a vinyl record is the side that typically contains a lesser-known song compared to the hit single on the A-side. Saying “see you on the flip side,” is kinda implying that they would catch the listener again later, often after a break or at a different time, similar to flipping the record to hear the other side.
How you can use the phrase “catch you on the flip side” - featuring examples
Here follows a few brief examples:
- I have to go, catch you on the flip side
- I’m sorry, I’m in a rush, I’ll catch you on the flip side
- No worries, I’ll catch you on the flip side
- I’ll catch you on the flip side - next Tuesday at noon, right?
- I’ll be back same tomorrow - catch you on the flip side!
Final word
So, to summarise, the phrase “catch you on the flip side” means exactly the same as “catch you later”, or “see you soon”. While the precise origin of the term is not confirmed, it is believed by many to be an informal goodbye from radio DJs at the end of their sets, with “the flip side” referring to the B-side of vinyl records.
The phrase originated in the 1960s, but it has certainly stood the test of time, because it continues to be used to this day. Even to the point where some people have been found wondering whether it’s Gen Z or Gen Alpha speak.
