Exploring the Idiom: 'Give Props To'

In this episode of Easy English Expressions, Coach Shane explores the casual yet impactful American English idiom: "give props to." This expression, often heard in entertainment settings such as award shows like the Oscars or the Grammys, is a versatile way to acknowledge someone's influence, talent, or support.

Defining 'Give Props To'

At its core, to "give props to" someone is a shortened version of the phrase "give proper respect." Coach Shane explains that using this expression is a way to publicly acknowledge that you appreciate, respect, and are thankful for someone. Whether you are religious and want to "give props to God" or "give props to Jesus," or you are simply acknowledging a family member, like saying, "I'd like to give props to my mom," the phrase serves as a modern, informal way to pay tribute to the people behind your success.

Context and Usage

Coach Shane notes that while he personally considers himself an "old guy" who might not use this slang in his daily life, it is extremely common in professional and creative circles. For instance, a singer might be interviewed by a radio DJ and, when asked about their songwriting process, might respond, "First of all, I got to give props to my songwriter, Brian." This demonstrates that the phrase is perfect for situations where you want to highlight the collaborative effort behind an achievement.

Practical Application: The Newsletter Example

The episode provides a practical dialogue to illustrate how the expression functions in a workplace or team environment:

• Person A: "I really love your newsletter. It's great, isn't it?"
• Person B: "Yes, it looks so good. It's easy to read. It's perfect. I gotta give props to Parmy. He did it all."

In this scenario, "giving props" serves as a form of high praise. By acknowledging Parmy, the speaker is not just saying thank you; they are explicitly stating that Parmy deserves the "proper respect" for the quality of the work produced. Coach Shane extends this to his own team, expressing gratitude for the "massive team" of over 30 people who help him coach students and manage his content, specifically calling out his web developer, Parmy, for his genius contributions.

Reflecting on Your Own Mentors

Coach Shane challenges listeners to reflect on their own lives and successes. He poses the question: "Who is behind your greatness?" Whether it is a talent for cooking, a skill in investing, or even a physical attribute like "Superman strength," he encourages listeners to identify the individuals who helped them get there.

He shares a personal example: "I'm a good barbecuer... I've got to give props to my dad. My dad taught me everything I know about barbecuing." This serves as a poignant reminder that we are rarely self-made; our skills and successes are often the result of lessons learned from others.

Conclusion

"Give props to" is more than just slang; it is an effective communicative tool for building community and showing appreciation. By incorporating this expression into your vocabulary, you can effectively share your "proper respect" for the mentors, family, and colleagues who have shaped your journey. As Coach Shane emphasizes, acknowledging the contributions of others is a vital part of being a successful and grateful individual.