Skip to content
DUFFEL BLOG

Free military brief. No CAC required.

Get Duffel Blog free. Upgrade when you’re ready.

Start with the free brief: military headlines you’ll have to double-check, delivered before the staff meeting finds you. If it becomes part of your routine, unlock the archive later.

“A must-read for national security nerds.”

—The Daily Beast
Subscribe form

Free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

14years publishing
4,200+dispatches filed
20,000+readers briefed

DUFFEL BLOG PRESENTS: Top 10 phrases used by subordinates, and what they really mean

The following is a leaked document given to staff non-commissioned officers and officers as a "leaders guide" for effectively understanding the meaning of phrases said by subordinates.

Troops are not very intelligent, but they are cunning. They often present a façade of discipline and instant obedience to orders, but what are they really saying? What are they actually thinking? Deciphering their secret language of millennial knavery is daunting at best.

In order to aid the 21st century military leader, we have compiled and translated some of the most common phrases used in what has become known as ‘barracks cant.’ This short list of phrases should provide significant illumination into the secret world of the subordinate underground.

1. “Private didn’t know…”

More Stories

Your Cart

Your cart is empty

Browse the shop to find something you like.

Continue Shopping →
Subtotal
WELCOME10 — 10% off applied at checkout

Add more for free shipping.

✓ You qualify for free shipping!