Part 3: What does 'bog-standard' mean? - The English We Speak

And me, Rob. Hey, Feifei, do you need me to order you a pizza?

Why would I want you to order me a pizza when we are presenting a programme?

Go on! Just say 'pizza' and my new smartphone will instantly order one for you.

Oh, I see. I know you've got a new and very expensive smartphone, Rob.

But I'm quite happy using my bog-standard dumbphone.

'Bog-standard'! You mean it's basic, ordinary and unexceptional?

I do, Rob. It's a strange expression and nobody really knows its origins.

Well, I think it's got something to do with the English slang for toilet - bog - which is where your 'old' phone should be!

Thanks, Rob. Shall we hear some 'bog-standard' examples now?

I've got a bog-standard computer, but it's fine for just sending emails and surfing the internet.

Sorry you got a low mark in your homework, but to be honest, it was bog-standard.

I found the new film bog-standard - it lacked the action and special effects I was expecting.

This is The English We Speak from BBC Learning English,

and we're learning about the phrase 'bog-standard', which describes things that are basic, ordinary and unexceptional.

Yes, like your basic mobile phone.

Oh, is that a message on your new shiny, very expensive, smartphone?

Yes, yes, it is. It's my first bill for my new phone.... Let's have a look.

What?! How much! Oh!

Oh dear, Rob. It's not such a new shiny phone now, is it?

Oh no, how are we going to order a pizza now?

On my 'bog-standard' phone?

Here, just press the numbers and you can actually talk to someone.

No, I'm not hungry now.

Bye! Bye!