Discussion » Questions » Language » Australia is referred to as Down Under allegedly because it is "under" the continent of Asia. In the US we have a Down East. It isn't. Why?
RosieG

Australia is referred to as Down Under allegedly because it is "under" the continent of Asia. In the US we have a Down East. It isn't. Why?

Downeast refers to the coast of the state of Maine from Penobscot Bay to the Canadian Border. It allegedly referred to the direction in which ships sailed. So if you are in Boston which is south of Maine you can travel  "downeast" which obviously is north. Looking on a world Map the Australia  "Down Under" makes a lot more sense than the US Downeast/Down East. What other confusing things are there in the English language?

Posted - September 18, 2017
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Responses


  • Etymology 
    The origin of the phrase "Down East" is typically traced to nautical terminology referring to direction, rather than location.   SOURCE: Wikipedia
      September 18, 2017 8:44 AM MDT
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