The phrase "new phone, who dis" is a modern idiom widely used in texting and online messaging. It is generally used to avoid a conversation or as a joke when someone does not recognize the person contacting them. It reflects a scenario where the person has supposedly lost all contact details and cannot recognize the message's sender.
In short:
"New phone, who dis" is used to express ignorance about the identity of the person contacting you, often used humorously or to avoid a conversation.
The phrase "New phone, who dis" carries a contemporary vibe and is used predominantly in informal settings.
Let's delve deeper into the nuances of this phrase.
It is essential to use the phrase judiciously to avoid misunderstandings with your acquaintances.
The phrase likely originated from real scenarios where people lost their contact information while changing phones. It found its popularity with the advent of smartphones and messaging apps. It has become part of the colloquial language, especially among the younger generation.
Though pinpointing the exact origin is difficult, the phrase started gaining traction around the mid-2010s with the popularization of text messaging. It entered the mainstream lexicon and even found its way into television shows and song lyrics, which amplified its usage among the masses.
Historical usage can be found in the 2016 song by Fabolous titled "New Phone, Who Dis?" which played a role in popularizing the phrase.
Here, we list down examples to help you understand how the phrase can be used in various sentences:
Understanding the different contexts will help you use the phrase appropriately without causing confusion.
This phrase has made notable appearances in various aspects of pop culture. Some instances include:
Though the phrase is quite unique, other ways or variations can convey a similar message. For instance:
These variations can be used in different contexts to genuinely inquire about the sender's identity or use it light-heartedly.
It's a casual way of asking the caller or sender of a message to identify themselves, typically used when the receiver doesn't recognize the number, often because they have recently changed their phone and do not have all their previous contacts stored.
This phrase likely originated from the common scenario where individuals lose their contacts after getting a new phone. It started becoming popular in the mid-2010s, especially in online memes and informal communication.
It is often used in a casual or informal context, usually over text messages or online platforms when someone does not recognize the person contacting them.
It is considered informal language and is typically used in casual conversations among friends or acquaintances.
Yes, depending on the context, it can be perceived as rude or dismissive, especially if used to avoid someone or to pretend not to know the person contacting them.
Some alternatives include phrases like "I've got a new device, who is this?" or "Sorry, I lost all my contacts; who's speaking?".
The phrase has permeated popular culture becoming a common joke or meme. It has appeared in various TV shows, songs, and other media, often used humorously.
Yes, it can be used both literally, when someone genuinely has a new phone and doesn't recognize a number, and figuratively, as a way to humorously or sarcastically dismiss someone or avoid a conversation.
Reactions can vary greatly, with some finding it humorous and others possibly finding it frustrating or rude, especially if they expected the receiver to have their number saved.
Yes, while the phrase directly refers to having a new phone, it has been used more broadly in situations where someone wants to indicate a fresh start or a break from the past, sometimes just to add humor to a conversation or to playfully avoid recognizing someone.
"New phone, who dis?" is a versatile phrase that speaks to modern technological issues and a casual, somewhat playful approach to communication. Whether you've genuinely lost your contacts due to a phone change, want to approach an unknown number with a light-hearted touch, or even if you're looking to deflect a conversation playfully, "new phone, who dis?" has a variety of applications in contemporary speech.
Here's a quick wrap-up: