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Snail mail
01
mail that is delivered physically by the postal system as opposed to email and other electronic means
Humorous
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "snail mail" and when to use it?
The idiom “snail mail” emerged in the 1940s to refer to traditional postal delivery in contrast to the much faster electronic mail, which became widespread in the 1990s. This expression draws a humorous comparison between the slow pace of a snail and the perceived sluggishness of the postal system. It is used to refer to traditional postal delivery in contrast to the much faster electronic mail, which became widespread in the 1990s.
snail mail
n
Example
In the age of instant messaging, snail mail seems like a relic of the past.
If you need to send something urgently, snail mail is not the best option.
I sent my application for the job via snail mail, but I'm worried it won't arrive on time.
I sent a birthday card to my grandmother in snail mail, as I know she enjoys receiving handwritten letters.
I prefer to receive my bills via email, as I find snail mail to be too slow and inconvenient.
