Peace out

[0088] Later, gator

🎲 After a while, crocodile
English Idioms
All Idioms

Explanation

  • A playful, rhyming slang farewell, meaning See you later.
  • Often used with children or in a very lighthearted, informal context among adults.

Origin

  • Popularized by the 1955 rock and roll song See You Later, Alligator by Bill Haley & His Comets. The song features rhyming couplets for farewells. Later, gator is a shortening of the title line.

Synonyms & Related Expressions

  • See you later, alligator. (The full phrase)
  • See you later. / See ya. / Later. (Non-playful equivalents)

Alternatives

Playful/Rhyming:

  • See you soon, raccoon. (Less common rhyme)
  • Toodaloo, kangaroo. (Less common rhyme)

Standard Informal:

  • See ya.
  • Bye.
  • Later.

Situational Appropriateness

  • Very informal and playful.
  • Most appropriate with children or between adults who share a sense of humor or nostalgia for the phrase.
  • Can sound childish or overly familiar if used in the wrong context (e.g., professional setting).

Misunderstanding Warnings

  • Low risk. Most people recognize it as a playful goodbye, even if they don't use it themselves. The main issue is using it inappropriately where playfulness isn't welcome.

Examples

  • (To a child) Okay, time for bed! Later, gator!
  • Friend 1: Heading out now! Friend 2: Okay! Later, gator!

Dialogue

Dad: Alright, sport, I'm off to work! Be good for Mom.

Kid: Okay, Daddy!

Dad: Later, gator!

Kid: After a while, crocodile!

Social Media Examples

  • Comment on a cute kid video: He's adorable! Later, gator! 😉
  • Playful sign-off on a retro-themed post: That's all for now, folks! Later, gator! #50sVibes

Response Patterns

  • The traditional rhyming response: After a while, crocodile.
  • Other playful responses or simple Bye! / See ya!

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

  • Usually none. Expects the rhyming response or just ends the interaction playfully.

Conversation Starter

  • No. Ends a conversation.

Intonation

  • Playful, light, often slightly sing-song tone.
  • Stress on La-(ter) and ga-(tor). Later, gator.

Generation Differences

  • Known across generations due to the enduring popularity of the song.
  • Might be used more frequently by older generations (Boomers, Gen X) recalling the song, or by parents with kids. Younger generations might use it ironically or playfully.

Regional Variations

  • Primarily American English due to the song's origin, but widely recognized in other English-speaking countries.
Peace out
🎲 After a while, crocodile