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the right side of the tracks
01
a very safe and wealthy area in a city or town
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "the right side of the tracks" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "the right side of the tracks" can be traced back to the historical division of neighborhoods or towns by railroad tracks. In many cities and towns, railroad tracks were built to connect different areas, and often, there was a socio-economic divide between the communities on either side. It is often employed to compare and contrast neighborhoods, cities, or regions, emphasizing the perceived advantages or disadvantages associated with each side.
Example
The right side of the tracks is known for its pristine neighborhoods, upscale shopping centers, and well-funded schools.
People often aspire to live on the right side of the tracks due to the perceived higher social status and better quality of life.
In the past, the right side of the tracks was predominantly inhabited by wealthy families, while the wrong side struggled with poverty and neglect.
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