no tickee, no washee
English
Etymology
A phrase stereotypically attributed to Chinese laundry workers in centuries past, who would only return a customer's washing when the ticket (receipt) was presented.
Phrase
- (Canada, US, slang) Something is not to be had without an exchange; there will be no deal without the required consideration or recompense.
- 1974, New York (State). Office of Employee Relations, Grievance and Disciplinary Arbitrations (volume 2, page 118)
- Dr. Weiss said that what he had said was, "No grant, no research, no tickee, no washee."
- 1999, James Ellroy, The Dudley Smith Trio, page 191:
- 'I don't need money. I need information.'
'And if I don't proffer this information you'll take your business elsewhere?' Buzz nodded toward the tram car. 'No tickee, no washee. […]
- 2002, Barbara Ann Lambert, Rusty Nails & Ration Books, page 326:
- It was really important to keep the slip of paper, given as a receipt because No tickee, no washee!
- 1974, New York (State). Office of Employee Relations, Grievance and Disciplinary Arbitrations (volume 2, page 118)
Usage notes
- Now likely to be offensive because of its origin as a racist caricature.
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