Jaywalking: meaning, definitions and examples
🚶♂️
jaywalking
[ˈjeɪˌwɔːkɪŋ ]
Definition
traffic violation
Jaywalking refers to the act of crossing a street unlawfully or without regard for the traffic rules. This often occurs when a pedestrian crosses a roadway in a place that is not designated for pedestrian crossing or without waiting for a traffic signal. In many jurisdictions, jaywalking is considered a minor offense that can be penalized by fines or warnings. It poses significant safety risks as it disrupts the flow of traffic and increases the potential for accidents.
Synonyms
illegal crossing, pedestrian violation, traffic infraction.
Examples of usage
- She was ticketed for jaywalking across the busy intersection.
- Jaywalking can lead to dangerous situations for both pedestrians and drivers.
- The city implemented new signs to discourage jaywalking in high-traffic areas.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term originated in the early 20th century, combining 'jay' (a term for someone naïve or unsophisticated) and 'walking'.
- Initially, the word referred to a simpleton who walks casually across streets, unaware of dangers.
- It became popular in the 1920s during the rise of automobiles, signaling a need for pedestrian safety.
Legal Aspects
- In many cities, jaywalking can lead to fines, which are intended to promote road safety for pedestrians.
- Safety campaigns have been launched to educate the public about the importance of crossing at designated areas.
- Laws vary significantly from place to place, with some cities enforcing strict penalties while others are more lenient.
Cultural Impact
- Jaywalking is often depicted in films and media as a humorous or rebellious act, reflecting cultural attitudes towards rules.
- Some urban planners advocate for reducing jaywalking by improving street designs and pedestrian zones.
- The act has sparked debates on pedestrian rights and city infrastructure, influencing urban development discussions.
Traffic Safety
- Studies have shown that clear signage and well-marked crosswalks can significantly reduce instances of jaywalking.
- As cities grow, the increase in vehicle traffic has resulted in higher incidents of pedestrian accidents related to jaywalking.
- Educational programs aim to raise awareness among pedestrians about road safety and the dangers of careless crossing.
Psychology
- Research indicates that people's willingness to jaywalk often correlates with their perception of risk and social norms.
- Peer influence plays a role, as individuals may be more likely to jaywalk with friends rather than alone.
- Cognitive biases, like overconfidence in personal safety, can lead individuals to ignore rules about safe street crossing.
Translations
Translations of the word "jaywalking" in other languages:
🇵🇹 atravessar fora da faixa
🇮🇳 ट्रैफिक नियमों का उल्लंघन करते हुए सड़क पार करना
🇩🇪 falsches Überqueren der Straße
🇮🇩 menyeberang jalan sembarangan
🇺🇦 перехід дороги в недозволеному місці
🇵🇱 przechodzenie przez ulicę w niedozwolonym miejscu
🇯🇵 信号無視で横断する
🇫🇷 traverser la rue hors des passages piétons
🇪🇸 cruzar la calle imprudentemente
🇹🇷 yaya geçidi dışından geçmek
🇰🇷 횡단보도 없이 도로를 건너다
🇸🇦 عبور الشارع بشكل غير قانوني
🇨🇿 přecházení silnice na nevhodném místě
🇸🇰 prechádzanie cez ulicu na nevhodnom mieste
🇨🇳 不按规定过马路
🇸🇮 prečkanje ceste na nedovoljenem mestu
🇮🇸 yfirferðir á götunni á ólöglegan hátt
🇰🇿 заңсыз жолды кесіп өту
🇬🇪 გზის გადაკვეთა არარეგულარულად
🇦🇿 yolda qanunsuz keçid
🇲🇽 cruzar la calle de manera imprudente
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,447, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.