Definition
Straphanger: A straphanger is a person who commutes by bus or rail and frequently stands during the trip, holding onto bars, handles, or straps for support. The term originated from early subway systems where leather straps were installed for standing passengers to hold onto, though these have since been replaced with metal bars and plastic handles.
Examples
- Subway Commuters in New York City: Many riders on NYC subways stand during rush hours, making them typical straphangers.
- Bus Riders in London: During peak times, bus riders in London frequently find themselves standing and holding onto overhead bars, fitting the definition of straphangers.
- Tokyo Metro Users: In the densely populated city of Tokyo, metro users often have to stand, especially during peak hours, making them straphangers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why are they called straphangers?
A: The term “straphanger” dates back to the early days of urban transit when leather straps were provided for standing passengers to hold onto. These straps have mostly been replaced by metal bars or plastic handles, but the term has persisted.
Q: Are straphangers only found in large cities?
A: Straphangers are most commonly found in large cities with extensive public transportation systems, but they can be found anywhere public transit services operate.
Q: Is being a straphanger uncomfortable?
A: Standing while commuting can be tiring or uncomfortable, especially during long rides or crowded conditions. However, for many, it is a routine part of daily life.
Related Terms
- Commuter: A person who travels some distance to and from work.
- Transit System: A network of buses, trains, and other vehicles used for public transport.
- Rush Hour: The busiest parts of the day when public transit is crowded.
- Metro: An urban, underground railway system for mass transit.
- Public Transportation: Systems of buses, trains, and other forms of transit available to the public.
Online References
- Wikipedia - Public Transport: Public Transport
- Investopedia - Commuter Tax Benefit: Commuter Tax Benefit
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Geography of Transport Systems” by Jean-Paul Rodrigue: A comprehensive guide on the systems and networks of transportation.
- “Transit Maps of the World” by Mark Ovenden: A visual compendium of transit maps from cities around the world, perfect for understanding global transit systems.
- “Transport Planning: Philosophy, Principles and Practice” by Michael Harris: This book offers a detailed introduction to the principles of transport planning.
Fundamentals of Straphanger: Transportation Basics Quiz
### What is a straphanger?
- [x] A bus or rail commuter who stands during travel.
- [ ] A person who drives a car for a living.
- [ ] A bus driver.
- [ ] A person who cycles to work.
> **Explanation:** A straphanger is specifically a bus or rail commuter who stands during travel, typically holding onto bars or handles.
### Where did the term "straphanger" originate from?
- [ ] Modern subway systems.
- [ ] Electric buses.
- [x] Early urban transit systems with leather straps.
- [ ] Cycling communities.
> **Explanation:** The term originated from early urban transit systems where leather straps were installed for standing passengers to hold onto during their commute.
### What has mostly replaced leather straps in modern transit systems?
- [ ] Nothing has replaced them, they are still in use.
- [x] Metal bars and plastic handles.
- [ ] Rope harnesses.
- [ ] Seat belts.
> **Explanation:** Leather straps have been mostly replaced by metal bars and plastic handles in modern transit systems.
### In which type of transportation are you most likely to find straphangers?
- [ ] Airplanes.
- [ ] Private taxi services.
- [x] Public buses and trains.
- [ ] Ferries.
> **Explanation:** Straphangers are most commonly found in public buses and trains, especially in urban areas during peak hours.
### What is a common time for encountering straphangers in public transit?
- [ ] Mid-day.
- [x] Rush hour.
- [ ] Late night.
- [ ] Early morning on weekends.
> **Explanation:** Rush hour is the most common time to encounter straphangers as public transit is usually overcrowded during these times.
### Which city is known for having a large number of subway straphangers?
- [x] New York City
- [ ] Los Angeles
- [ ] Miami
- [ ] Denver
> **Explanation:** New York City is well-known for its congested subway system and large number of straphangers.
### Straphanging typically requires support from what?
- [ ] Other commuters.
- [ ] Standing tall without any aid.
- [x] Bars or handles.
- [ ] Sitting passengers.
> **Explanation:** Straphangers typically require support from bars or handles to maintain balance during transit.
### What is an alternative to being a straphanger?
- [ ] Jogging to work.
- [x] Finding a seat.
- [ ] Driving a car.
- [ ] Cycling.
> **Explanation:** Finding a seat eliminates the need to stand and hold onto bars or handles, thus avoiding being a straphanger.
### Is it possible to be a straphanger on a tram or streetcar?
- [x] Yes, these are forms of public transit where standing passengers may need to hold onto straps or bars.
- [ ] No, only on trains and buses.
- [ ] Only in large subway systems.
- [ ] No, trams and streetcars don't allow standing.
> **Explanation:** Yes, it's possible to be a straphanger on a tram or streetcar, as these are forms of public transit where passengers may need to stand and hold onto straps or bars.
### Who coined the term 'straphanger'?
- [ ] Henry Ford
- [x] It evolved naturally from commuters.
- [ ] Public transport authorities.
- [ ] Taxi drivers.
> **Explanation:** The term 'straphanger' evolved naturally from commuters who needed to hold onto leather straps during their standing commutes in early public transit systems.
Thank you for exploring the dynamic world of urban transit with a focus on straphangers. Happy commuting!
