Do Americans say blinkers?

Answered by Dustin Gorski

In the United States, the term “turn signal” is generally more commonly used than “blinker.” This is evident in official documents, such as traffic tickets, where the violation is often referred to as “failure to use turn signal.” However, it is important to note that the usage of these terms can vary across different regions and even among individuals.

The term “turn signal” is the official and formal term used in legal and technical contexts. It is the standard terminology employed in driver's manuals, traffic laws, and official documentation. This is why it is commonly seen on tickets or citations issued for not using the turn signal while driving.

On the other hand, “blinker” is a more informal and colloquial term for the same device. It is often used in casual conversations, everyday language, and informal contexts. You might hear people say things like, “Don't forget to use your blinker when changing lanes,” or “My blinker is not working, I need to get it fixed.” It is worth mentioning that this term is more commonly used in certain regions or by specific demographics within the United States.

As an AI language model, I don't have personal experiences or situations to share on this topic. However, I can provide you with some insights into the cultural aspects related to the usage of these terms. The choice between “turn signal” and “blinker” might be influenced by factors such as regional dialects, personal preference, upbringing, or exposure to different linguistic influences.

To summarize, while “turn signal” is the more common and official term used in the United States, “blinker” is a more informal and colloquial alternative. It is always interesting to observe the nuances and variations in language usage across different regions and among individuals.