The phrase "totally tubular" is undeniably etched in the lexicon of 1980s slang, evoking images of vibrant leg warmers, big hair, and radical skateboarding. But pinning down the exact origin and first user remains surprisingly elusive, making it a perfect candidate for a "This Old Movie Thing" (TOMT) query. While no single definitive source exists, we can explore the evolution of this iconic phrase and delve into why it’s so difficult to definitively answer "who said 'totally tubular' first?"
What Makes "Totally Tubular" a TOMT Challenge?
The difficulty in tracing "totally tubular" to a single source stems from several factors:
- Slang's Organic Nature: Slang evolves organically. Phrases often emerge simultaneously in various communities, making it challenging to identify a singular originator. "Totally tubular" likely popped up in various contexts before gaining widespread popularity.
- Lack of Comprehensive Archives: Detailed records of everyday speech from the 1980s, particularly casual conversations, are scarce. While media archives exist, they don't capture the full spectrum of linguistic development.
- The Power of Repetition: Once a phrase gains traction, it spreads rapidly, often without attribution. This makes tracing its earliest usage incredibly difficult.
Where Did "Totally Tubular" Likely Originate?
While we can't pinpoint the first user, we can identify likely breeding grounds for the phrase:
- California Surf Culture: The term's imagery strongly suggests a connection to California's surf and skateboarding culture. The word "tubular" itself describes a perfect, cylindrical wave – a surfer's dream. The addition of "totally" amplifies the positive sentiment.
- Youth Slang: The phrase clearly belongs to the youth vernacular of the 1980s. It's the type of expressive, emphatic slang that young people often create and disseminate quickly.
- Early 80s Media: Although no single movie or TV show is credited with its creation, early 80s media likely played a significant role in its spread. Casual mentions in movies, TV shows, and possibly even advertisements could have contributed to its mainstream adoption.
H3: Did a Specific Movie or TV Show Popularize "Totally Tubular"?
Many believe a specific movie or TV show launched "totally tubular" into the mainstream. However, this is unlikely. Instead, it was probably a confluence of factors, including:
- Word of Mouth: The phrase's catchy nature made it easily spread through word of mouth amongst teenagers.
- Media Saturation: While not originating from a single source, its repetition across various media (movies, TV shows, music videos) amplified its visibility and solidified its place in 80s culture.
H3: Why Is It So Hard to Find the Original User of "Totally Tubular"?
The absence of a centralized, comprehensive archive of 1980s slang makes it challenging to trace the phrase's origins. Even if someone can recall hearing it earlier, proving that usage as definitively first is near impossible without concrete evidence.
Conclusion: Embracing the Mystery
While we may never definitively answer who first uttered "totally tubular," its enduring presence in popular culture speaks to its impact. The mystery only adds to its charm, underscoring the organic, unpredictable nature of slang and the difficulty of tracking its ephemeral origins. It remains a quintessential example of a TOMT enigma, a linguistic puzzle that continues to fascinate those who study language evolution and pop culture.
