It is so much fun to say “What is the over/under?” However, unfortunately, the real meaning of the phrase  doesn’t always apply. If it isn’t a sports reference and there is no “book” established – are you actually saying the right phrase?

• What’s the over/under this accident will clear up quickly?
• What’s the over/under that the kids will be ready?
• What’s the over/under on rain today?
• What is the over/under we make it out of here?

It’s just a way of saying “what are the odds?” and if they’re in your favor without trying to create some literary reference to the Hunger Games.  However, I did read the phrase in a book this evening, just about an hour after we were discussing this and the odds of there being traffic or not. (There was.)

“What is the over/under that she would show up today?” was written – right there in the book…I mean, in a book. No one actually offered up a score, a chance of winning. Although, from what I can guess in this historical fiction novel I have just started, the odds are pretty good that she will find her true calling – and in the end, isn’t that really all that we are looking for in life? Of course, when we do, that is a win.

~ Dawn aka Hat Girl