You hear it all the time in your favorite songs on the radio or in movies when someone is talking on the phone about avoiding the police.
The slang term “12” has become widely used to refer to law enforcement officials, but where does it come from?
In this blog post, we will explore the top 3 reasons why police are called 12 and how the term has evolved over time.
1. What is the slang term for police and where does it come from?
The term “12” comes from police radio codes called “Ten Codes,” which were developed in the 1930s by law enforcement at the time.
Police ten codes are a set of numeric codes that were used to communicate information quickly and efficiently between police officers.
One of the most commonly used codes was “10-12,” which meant that there were visitors present in the area where police were going.
The term has evolved and has now become widely used in pop culture.
Also Read: Non Emergency Police Number: What Is It & When to Use It?
The top 3 reasons why police are called 12
The top three reasons police are called 12 are:
To Let People Know The Police is Present
This is the most common reason why people use the term “12.”
When people are talking on the phone or in person, they will use the term “12” to let others know that the police are nearby or on their way.
This gives people a heads up so that they can avoid any potential trouble.
As a Warning
The second most common reason people use the term “12” is to warn others about the police.
For example, if someone is driving recklessly and they see a police car in their rearview mirror, they might say “12” to warn their passengers that the police are behind them.
This term can also be used as a warning to people who are about to commit something illegal.
If someone is about to do something illegal, their accomplice might say “12” as a way of telling them to stop.
It’s Widely Used in Pop Culture
Pop culture has played a role in popularizing the term “12.”
One of the most famous examples is from the 1995 film “Friday,” where Ice Cube’s character uses the term to warn his friends about the police.
Since then, the term has been used in many other films, TV shows, and songs.
The term “12” is now widely recognized as a slang term for police.
FAQ About the Slang Term “12”
Below are some frequently asked questions about the term “12.”
What does 12 mean in slang?
The term “12” is a slang term for police. It comes from the police radio code “Ten-Code,” which was developed in the 1930s.
The code “Ten-Code” is a set of numeric codes that were used to communicate information quickly and efficiently between law enforcement officers.
How do you use 12 in a sentence?
Here are some example sentences that use the term “12:”
“I was driving home from work when I saw a police car in my rearview mirror, so I said ’12’ to warn my passengers.”
Q: Where did the term “12” come from?
A: The term “12” comes from the police radio code “10-12,” which was developed in the 1930s.
Q: Is it a form of disrespect to call the police “12”?
A: No, the term “12” is not a form of disrespect. It’s a slang term that is used to refer to the police.
Q: How can I avoid getting in trouble with the police?
A: The best way to avoid getting in trouble with the police is to obey the law. If you are breaking the law, there is a chance that you will get caught and arrested.
Q: What should I do if I am stopped by the police?
A: The best thing to do if you are stopped by the police is to stay calm and be respectful. You should also follow any instructions that the police give you.
If you have any questions about the law or your rights, you can ask to speak to a lawyer.
Should I use the term “12” to refer to the police?
The term “12” is a slang term for the police. It’s not a form of disrespect, but some people might find it offensive.
If you are unsure whether or not someone will be offended by the term, it’s best to avoid using it.
Should I encourage my friends to use the term “12”?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. It’s up to you whether or not you want to encourage your friends to use the term “12.”
Some people might find it offensive, while others might think it’s cool.
What are the consequences of using the term “12”?
There are no consequences for using the term “12.” It’s a slang term that is used to refer to the police.
Will I upset the police if I use the term “12”?
No, you will not upset the police if you use the term “12.” They are used to hearing it and it’s not something that will offend them.
Should I use the term “12” in front of my parents?
It’s up to you whether or not you use the term “12” in front of your parents. Some parents might be okay with it, while others might find it offensive.
If you are unsure, it’s best to avoid using the term around them.