what’s up: Idiom Meaning and Origin

what's going on is another idiomatic phrase that is closely related to "what's up." Just like "what's up," it is commonly used as a casual greeting or a way of asking someone how they are doing. The phrase "what's going on" has a similar literal meaning, referring to what is happening or taking place. However, in its idiomatic usage, it is not meant to be answered with a detailed explanation but serves more as a rhetorical question or a simple greeting.

how are you is yet another phrase that is closely related to "what's up." It is a common and friendly way of asking about someone's well-being or current state. While "what's up" is more casual and often used among acquaintances or friends, "how are you" can be used in both formal and informal situations. It is a versatile phrase that allows people to check on each other's emotional or physical state in a friendly manner.

how goes it is yet another idiom that is related to "what's up." Like the other idioms mentioned, it is often used as a casual greeting or a way of asking someone how they are doing. "How goes it" has a similar literal meaning, inquiring about the progress or state of things. However, in its idiomatic usage, it is not meant to be answered with a detailed explanation but functions more as a rhetorical question or a simple greeting.

what's new is another phrase that is related to "what's up." It is often used in casual conversation to ask about any recent developments or updates in someone's life. While "what's up" is a more generic greeting, "what's new" indicates a specific interest in hearing about any new and exciting happenings. It is a friendly and informal way of showing interest in someone's life and engaging in conversation.

how's tricks is a phrase that is related to "what's up," although it is less commonly used. It is a colloquial and somewhat old-fashioned expression that is used to ask how things are going or to inquire about someone's well-being. Like the other idioms mentioned, "how's tricks" is not meant to be answered with a detailed explanation but serves more as a friendly greeting or a conversational opener.

"what's up" is an informal and commonly used idiom in the United States. It is often used as a casual greeting or a way of asking someone how they are doing. The idiom is believed to have originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and has since become widely used in American English. The phrases "what's going on," "how are you," "how goes it," "what's new," and "how's tricks" are all related idioms that convey similar meanings and can be used interchangeably in informal conversation. Overall, these idioms reflect the rich and diverse linguistic history of American English and serve as flexible and casual greetings in contemporary American society.