What Are Some Gangster Phrases? Unpacking the Lingo of the Underworld

What are some gangster phrases?

Gangster phrases are the colorful, often coded, language used by individuals involved in organized crime. These terms can range from slang for money and illegal activities to expressions of loyalty, threats, and the general vernacular of the streets. They often serve as a secret code, a way to communicate without alerting outsiders, and a marker of belonging within a particular group. My own fascination with this topic began years ago, sparked by countless crime dramas and historical accounts. I remember watching a documentary about Prohibition-era mobsters, and the way they spoke, with their rapid-fire slang and veiled meanings, was absolutely captivating. It felt like unlocking a hidden world, a testament to the human need for communication, even in the shadows.

So, what are some gangster phrases? You’ll find a whole lexicon, but at their core, these phrases are about survival, power, and a twisted sense of community. They’re the verbal tools of a subculture that operates by its own rules, often at odds with societal norms. Understanding these phrases offers a glimpse into the mindset, the social dynamics, and the historical context of organized crime. It’s not just about the words themselves, but the stories they tell and the people who used them. From the early days of bootlegging to modern-day operations, the language of the gangster has evolved, but its purpose often remains the same: to communicate, to intimidate, and to define.

The Evolution of Gangster Lingo: A Historical Perspective

The language of gangsters isn’t static; it’s a living, breathing entity that has morphed and adapted over time, much like the criminal enterprises themselves. Initially, much of the slang emerged from specific ethnic enclaves and the unique environments in which these groups operated. For instance, the early Italian-American Mafia developed a distinct vocabulary, often influenced by Italian dialects and the need for secrecy within their communities. Later, as other groups entered the organized crime scene, their linguistic contributions blended in, creating a richer and more complex lexicon.

During the Prohibition era (1920-1933), the demand for illegal alcohol fueled the rise of powerful crime syndicates. This period was a fertile ground for the development and widespread use of gangster phrases. Think of terms like “hooch” for illegal liquor, “speakeasy” for an illicit bar, and “bootlegger” for someone involved in the illegal alcohol trade. These terms weren’t just casual slang; they were essential for navigating the dangerous and secretive world of illegal alcohol production and distribution. The constant threat of law enforcement and rival gangs necessitated a coded language that could be understood by those in the know, but remain opaque to outsiders.

As organized crime diversified beyond bootlegging, so did its language. The post-Prohibition era saw the rise of gambling rings, loan sharking operations, and eventually, more sophisticated criminal enterprises. This led to the adoption and creation of new phrases. For example, “the rackets” became a general term for illegal businesses. The concept of a “hit” or “hitman” became commonplace to describe assassination. These phrases were often stark and brutal, reflecting the violent nature of the business.

The media, particularly Hollywood, has played a significant role in both popularizing and, at times, misrepresenting gangster phrases. Movies and television shows have introduced these terms to a wider audience, sometimes in exaggerated or stereotypical ways. This has led to a fascinating phenomenon where some gangster slang has entered mainstream vernacular, losing its original criminal context and becoming almost a caricature of itself. However, for those who still operate within these circles, the language retains its power and function. It’s a constant reminder of the code, the hierarchy, and the risks involved.

From my own observations, the more authentic the portrayal of criminal life in media, the more nuanced and specific the language tends to be. Older films, like those from the 1930s and 40s, often captured a more genuine flavor of the era’s slang. Later productions, while perhaps more sensational, sometimes dilute the authenticity. It’s a delicate balance between storytelling and accuracy, and understanding the historical trajectory of these phrases helps us appreciate their true origins and impact.

Key Categories of Gangster Phrases

To truly understand the depth and breadth of gangster phrases, it’s helpful to categorize them. This approach allows us to see how the language functions across different aspects of criminal life. We can break them down into several key areas, each with its own set of unique terminology.

• Money and Wealth: Criminal enterprises are, at their core, about profit. Therefore, a significant portion of gangster slang revolves around the acquisition and perception of money.
• Illegal Activities and Operations: This category encompasses the very nature of what gangsters do – their illicit businesses and the methods they employ.
• People and Roles: Within a criminal organization, there are specific roles and types of individuals. The language reflects this hierarchy and the relationships between members.
• Actions and Consequences: The life of a gangster is often characterized by specific actions, both on their part and those taken against them. The language reflects this dynamic, from planning to dealing with repercussions.
• Loyalty and Betrayal: The concept of loyalty is paramount in organized crime, and so is the fear of betrayal. The language used in these contexts is often stark and carries significant weight.
• Law Enforcement and Justice: The constant cat-and-mouse game with the authorities necessitates a specific set of terms to refer to police, legal proceedings, and imprisonment.

By exploring these categories, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the gangster lexicon. It’s not just a collection of random words, but a sophisticated system of communication designed for a specific environment.

1. Phrases Related to Money and Wealth

Money is the lifeblood of any criminal organization. Gangster phrases related to money often reflect a pragmatic, sometimes cynical, view of wealth. These terms can denote the amount of money, the means of its acquisition, or the general idea of financial success within their world.

Here are some commonly encountered phrases:

• “Dough”: A classic, all-purpose term for money. Simple, straightforward, and widely understood. It’s been around for a long time and still pops up.
• “Bread”: Similar to “dough,” this is another generic term for money, likely originating from the idea of sustenance, like bread being a staple.
• “Scratch”: Often implies money earned through less-than-legitimate means, or simply a casual reference to cash. “I need some scratch to get by.”
• “C-note”: Specifically refers to a one-hundred-dollar bill. This is a very common piece of slang that has crossed over into mainstream usage.
• “G”: Short for “grand,” meaning one thousand dollars. So, “ten Gs” would be ten thousand dollars. This is a very prevalent term in many urban dialects.
• “Jack”: Can refer to money, or the act of robbing someone of money. For example, “to jack someone” means to rob them.
• “Loot”: Often implies money obtained illegally or as spoils from a crime. It carries a slightly more illicit connotation than “dough.”
• “Moolah”: A more informal and somewhat playful term for money.
• “Swag”: While today often used to mean style or confidence, historically, “swag” could also refer to stolen goods or the proceeds from a robbery.
• “Heavy”: Used to describe a large amount of money. “He’s carrying heavy” means he has a lot of cash on him.
• “The whole nine yards”: While this phrase can mean “everything,” in some contexts, it could also refer to a large sum of money or a comprehensive criminal operation.
• “Greenbacks”: A direct reference to U.S. dollar bills, owing to their color.
• “Juice”: While often referring to influence or power, “juice” could also metaphorically refer to money, especially the money that greases the wheels of illicit operations.
• “Roll”: To have a lot of money. “He’s got a big roll” means he’s wealthy.
• “Paper”: Another simple term for money, especially cash.

The use of these phrases isn’t just about efficiency; it can also be about projecting an image of success and financial power, even if that success is built on illegal foundations. The ability to amass and control “dough” or “loot” is a key indicator of status within the criminal underworld.

2. Phrases Related to Illegal Activities and Operations

This is perhaps the most critical category, as it describes the core business of gangsters. These phrases often involve euphemisms, coded language, and direct descriptions of criminal acts.

Let’s delve into some of these:

• “The Life”: This broad term refers to the lifestyle and activities associated with organized crime. It encompasses all the risks, rewards, and inherent dangers.
• “The Hustle”: Any activity undertaken to make money, especially illicitly. It can range from petty scams to large-scale operations.
• “The Rackets”: A general term for illegal businesses or rackets, such as extortion, illegal gambling, or protection schemes.
• “A Score”: A successful criminal enterprise or a significant amount of money or goods obtained through a crime. “We pulled off a big score last night.”
• “The Job”: Often used to refer to a specific criminal operation, like a robbery or a heist.
• “Hit”: A murder, usually carried out for payment or to settle a score. A “hitman” is the person who carries out the hit.
• “Rub out” / “Take out”: Synonyms for a hit, often used to sound less direct and more clinical.
• “Whack”: Another slang term for killing someone.
• “Ice”: This can refer to killing someone (e.g., “to ice someone”) or to diamonds, reflecting a dual meaning of valuable and dangerous.
• “Blow in”: To arrive somewhere unexpectedly, often associated with a surprise raid or arrival of law enforcement.
• “Flip”: To turn informant, to betray one’s associates to the authorities. This is a highly derogatory term.
• “Rat” / “Snitch”: Someone who informs on others, particularly to the police. These are terms of extreme contempt.
• “Omerta”: Derived from Italian, this refers to the code of silence that forbids members of the Mafia from cooperating with law enforcement. Breaking omerta can have severe consequences.
• “Lay low”: To hide or keep a low profile, usually to avoid detection by law enforcement or rivals.
• “On the lam”: Escaping from legal custody or hiding from the police after committing a crime.
• “Take a powder”: To leave quickly and discreetly, often to avoid trouble.
• “Pad”: A residence or hideout.
• “Burn”: To betray someone, to ruin their operation or reputation.
• “Cook”: To falsify something, such as records or drugs.
• “The Fuzz”: A slang term for the police.
• “The Heat”: Refers to intense police attention or pressure. “The heat is on.”
• “Legit”: Short for legitimate. Gangsters often seek to “go legit” by moving their operations into legal businesses.
• “Cash out”: To withdraw from criminal activity, often after amassing a significant amount of money.
• “Fence”: Someone who buys and sells stolen goods.
• “Cut”: A share of the profits from an illegal activity.
• “Kingpin”: The leader of a criminal organization.
• “Enforcer”: A member of a criminal group whose job is to intimidate or injure others to make them comply with the group’s demands.
• “Legbreaker”: Similar to an enforcer, specializing in violence, particularly breaking bones.
• “Consigliere”: An advisor to the boss of a crime family, often an elder statesman or lawyer who provides strategic counsel.
• “Made man”: A fully initiated member of the Mafia, having sworn allegiance and gone through specific rituals.
• “Associate”: Someone who works with a criminal organization but is not a full member.
• “Mug”: A person’s face, or sometimes a term for a thug or ruffian.
• “Chump”: A fool, a victim, someone easily exploited.
• “Mark”: The target of a scam or con.
• “Sucker”: Similar to “chump,” someone easily deceived.
• “Wiseguy”: A slang term for a gangster, particularly an Italian-American mobster. It implies someone who is savvy and knows the rules of the underworld.
• “Capo”: Short for Caporegime, a captain in a Mafia hierarchy, responsible for a crew of soldiers.
• “Soldier”: A lower-ranking member of a Mafia family, carrying out orders.
• “Underboss”: The second-in-command in a crime family.
• “Boss”: The head of a crime family.
• “Chief”: Can be a term for a leader, though more general.
• “Big shot”: Someone important or influential, often used sarcastically for someone who thinks they are.
• “Face”: The most important or well-known member of a crew.
• “Goombah”: A slang term, often considered affectionate or derogatory depending on context, for an Italian-American man, frequently associated with a stereotypical mobster image.
• “Palooka”: A term for a clumsy or unintelligent person, often used in boxing contexts but also for a weak or ineffective gangster.

5. Phrases Related to Loyalty and Betrayal

In the world of organized crime, loyalty is the bedrock upon which trust and operations are built. Conversely, betrayal is the ultimate sin, often met with the most severe consequences. The language used to describe these concepts is particularly charged.

Here are some key phrases:

• “Omerta”: As mentioned before, this is the code of silence that is the cornerstone of loyalty. It’s not just a phrase; it’s a creed.
• “Brother” / “Cousin”: These terms are often used metaphorically to denote a close bond of loyalty within the organization, even if no blood relation exists. Referring to someone as “my brother” signifies a deep level of trust and allegiance.
• “Family”: The crime syndicate itself is often referred to as a “family,” emphasizing the bond and loyalty expected among its members.
• “Take the fall”: To accept blame or punishment for a crime committed by someone else, usually out of loyalty or under duress. This is a demonstration of ultimate loyalty.
• “Rat” / “Snitch”: The most damning labels one can receive. These terms signify someone who has broken the code of silence and betrayed their associates to the authorities.
• “Flip”: To become an informant, to cooperate with law enforcement. This is the act of betrayal.
• “Burned”: To be betrayed or set up by someone you trusted. “I got burned on that deal.”
• “Backstabber”: Someone who betrays others, often in a deceitful and unexpected way.
• “Loyalty”: The paramount virtue. To be deemed “loyal” is to be trusted and respected.
• “Trust”: A fragile commodity. When trust is broken, it’s rarely, if ever, regained.
• “Friend of ours” / “Friend of mine”: In Mafia circles, this often implies a trusted associate who is not a made member but is nevertheless relied upon.
• “On the level”: To be honest and trustworthy, a rare quality in the underworld.

The constant tension between loyalty and the ever-present threat of betrayal shapes the social dynamics within criminal groups. The language reflects this, with harsh condemnations for those who break ranks and high praise for those who uphold the code.

6. Phrases Related to Law Enforcement and Justice

The relationship between gangsters and law enforcement is inherently adversarial. The language used to refer to the police, the legal system, and incarceration is often derogatory, dismissive, or coded.

Here are some common phrases:

• “The Fuzz”: A classic, somewhat dated, but still recognizable slang term for the police.
• “The Heat”: Refers to intense police scrutiny or pressure. “The heat is on” means law enforcement is actively pursuing them.
• “Pigs”: A derogatory and disrespectful term for police officers.
• “Coppers”: Another common, though somewhat milder, slang term for police.
• “12”: A coded reference to the police, originating from the number of police cars that might respond to a call.
• “The Law”: A general term for law enforcement agencies and their authority.
• “The Boys in Blue”: A somewhat more neutral, sometimes even slightly sarcastic, term for police officers.
• “On the inside”: Referring to being in prison or jail.
• “Doing time”: Serving a prison sentence.
• “The Big House”: A slang term for prison.
• “The joint”: Another common slang term for prison.
• “Cellmate”: The person you share a prison cell with.
• “Out on bail”: Released from jail pending trial after paying a sum of money.
• “Parole”: Conditional release from prison before the full sentence is served.
• “Probation”: A period of supervision by a probation officer after conviction, instead of imprisonment.
• “The System”: Refers to the entire legal and judicial apparatus, often viewed with suspicion or hostility.
• “Get pinched”: To be arrested by the police.
• “Do a number on someone”: Can mean to assault or kill someone, but in a legal context, it could also mean to frame someone or ensure they receive a harsh sentence.
• “Set up”: To frame someone for a crime they did not commit, often by law enforcement or rival criminals.
• “Brass”: Refers to high-ranking police officials.
• “DA”: District Attorney, the prosecutor.
• “The court”: The judicial system.
• “Judge”: The person presiding over a court.
• “Jury”: The group of people who decide guilt or innocence.
• “Guilty plea”: Admitting to a crime.
• “Alibi”: Evidence that proves someone was elsewhere when a crime was committed.
• “Hang ’em high”: A phrase indicating a desire for severe punishment, especially a death sentence.

These phrases highlight the constant vigilance and strategic maneuvering required to evade capture and minimize the consequences of criminal activity. The language is a form of psychological warfare, designed to distance oneself from the gravity of the legal system and the punishments it imposes.

Understanding the Nuance: Context is Key

It’s crucial to understand that the meaning of gangster phrases can shift dramatically depending on the context, the era, and the specific group using them. What might be a casual term for money in one instance could carry a sinister undertone in another.

For example, the word “ice”. In popular culture, it’s often associated with diamonds and wealth (“ice on my wrist”). However, in a more hardcore gangster context, “ice” can refer to a killing, especially a cold-blooded murder. This duality is a common feature of slang – words can have multiple layers of meaning.

Similarly, terms related to loyalty and betrayal are incredibly sensitive. A phrase like “friend of mine” might sound innocuous, but within certain circles, it can carry a heavy implication of connection and shared risk. Conversely, using such a term loosely could be seen as disrespectful or even dangerous.

My own experience trying to decipher some of these phrases, especially when watching older films or reading historical accounts, taught me the importance of looking beyond the surface. It’s like learning a new dialect; you have to absorb the cultural cues, the unspoken rules, and the historical backdrop to truly grasp the meaning.

The rise of the internet and social media has also had an impact. Some older slang terms have been revived or recontextualized, while new ones emerge with alarming speed. This makes the study of gangster phrases a perpetually evolving field.

Examples in Action: A Hypothetical Scenario

Let’s imagine a conversation between two fictional gangsters, Frankie and Vinnie, in the 1950s. This isn’t meant to be a definitive historical recreation, but rather an illustration of how these phrases might be woven into dialogue.

Frankie: “Hey Vinnie, you got that dough we were expecting from the racket over on Canal Street?”

Vinnie: “Yeah, Frankie. It was a good score. We pulled in about ten Gs. Clean paper, no heat on us.”

Frankie: “Good. The boss wants his cut by tonight. He’s been breathing down my neck. He doesn’t want any surprises, no rats messing things up.”

Vinnie: “Don’t worry. Everyone’s on the level. Nobody’s gonna flip on us. We’re like brothers in this thing.”

Frankie: “I hope so. Last week, Mikey got burned bad. Turns out he was talking to the wrong people. Now he’s doing time in the joint.”

Vinnie: “That bum. He always was a chump. He couldn’t handle the life. Well, let’s get this bread to the boss. Don’t want to end up like Mikey.”

In this brief exchange, we see phrases related to money (“dough,” “Gs,” “paper,” “bread,” “cut”), illegal activities (“racket,” “score,” “the life,” “the level”), law enforcement (“heat,” “rats,” “flip,” “joint,” “time”), and loyalty/betrayal (“brothers,” “burned,” “chump”). It illustrates how these terms are not just isolated words but form a coherent, albeit informal, linguistic system.

The Cultural Impact and Legacy of Gangster Phrases

Gangster phrases have had a profound and lasting impact on popular culture. They’ve seeped into everyday language, often stripped of their original criminal connotations, but their echoes remain.

Think about movies. From early gangster films like “Little Caesar” and “The Public Enemy” to modern classics like “The Godfather” and “Goodfellas,” the language of the streets has been a constant presence. These films have not only entertained but also educated audiences about a world that most would never experience firsthand.

Music, too, has embraced and perpetuated gangster slang. Hip-hop culture, in particular, has a rich history of using and innovating street slang, much of which has roots in or parallels with traditional gangster vernacular. Terms related to money, power, and the struggles of marginalized communities often find their voice through these linguistic channels.

The legacy of these phrases is complex. On one hand, they represent a subculture that, while often violent and destructive, also exhibits a unique form of social organization and communication. On the other hand, the romanticization of gangster life through its language can be problematic, potentially glorifying criminal activity.

From my perspective, the fascination with these phrases stems from their inherent danger and secrecy. They represent a forbidden knowledge, a peek behind the curtain of societal norms. The power of these words lies not just in their meaning but in the world they evoke – a world of risk, loyalty, and often, a stark code of honor, however twisted.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gangster Phrases

How did gangster phrases originate?

The origin of gangster phrases is a complex tapestry woven from several threads. Initially, much of this specialized vocabulary emerged from the need for secrecy among criminal groups. Think of ethnic enclaves, like early Italian-American communities, where Italian dialects mixed with English to create a coded language understood only by those “in the know.” This was crucial for avoiding detection by law enforcement and for maintaining control within their operations.

The Prohibition era, with its booming illegal alcohol trade, was a major catalyst. Suddenly, a vast underground economy sprang up, requiring its own lexicon to discuss everything from illicit liquor (“hooch”) to hidden bars (“speakeasies”) and the people who moved the product (“bootleggers”). The constant threat of raids and rivalries meant that clear, unambiguous communication was vital, but it had to be unintelligible to outsiders.

Beyond specific historical periods, broader societal influences played a role. Slang from various subcultures, marginalized communities, and even other professions could be adopted and adapted by gangsters. The language of the streets, with its constant evolution and regional variations, provided a fertile ground for this linguistic development. Over time, media, particularly films and television, then played a significant role in popularizing these phrases, sometimes accurately, sometimes in a more sensationalized manner, leading to their wider recognition and, occasionally, their integration into mainstream language.

Why do gangsters use specific phrases?

The use of specific phrases by gangsters is driven by a multifaceted set of needs and motivations, all deeply rooted in the nature of their clandestine activities. At its most fundamental level, this specialized language serves as a form of coded communication. By using terms that are unfamiliar to outsiders, including law enforcement, gangsters can discuss their operations, plans, and illicit dealings without being easily understood. This is not just about convenience; it’s about survival. A slip of the tongue or an intercepted conversation could have dire consequences, leading to arrests, loss of product, or even violence.

Beyond secrecy, these phrases foster a sense of group identity and solidarity. Using the shared vernacular signifies belonging to a particular crew, organization, or “family.” It creates an “us versus them” mentality, reinforcing loyalty and distinguishing members from outsiders. The language acts as a badge of honor or a marker of membership, a way of saying, “I am one of you, I understand the rules.”

Furthermore, gangster phrases can be used to intimidate and assert dominance. The language itself can be harsh, aggressive, or dismissive, reflecting the power dynamics within the criminal underworld. Terms for enemies, law enforcement, or those who betray the group are often highly derogatory, serving to dehumanize and justify the actions taken against them. The very sound and usage of certain phrases can carry an inherent threat.

Finally, there’s an element of historical continuity and tradition. Many phrases have been passed down through generations of criminals, connecting current practitioners to their predecessors. This provides a sense of legacy and reinforces the established norms and hierarchies within organized crime. In essence, these phrases are not just words; they are tools for survival, identity, power, and tradition in a world operating outside the bounds of conventional society.

Are gangster phrases still used today?

Yes, gangster phrases are absolutely still in use today, although their prevalence and the specific terms employed can vary significantly. The landscape of organized crime has evolved, and so has its language. While some older slang, particularly from eras like Prohibition, might be less common in everyday criminal discourse, many terms have endured and adapted. The core functions of gangster language—secrecy, group identity, and intimidation—remain relevant.

Modern criminal enterprises, whether they are traditional organized crime families, street gangs, or more sophisticated cybercriminal networks, often develop their own specialized lexicons. These new terms might be influenced by current technology, social trends, or regional dialects. For instance, terms related to drug trafficking, cybercrime, or human smuggling will be more prominent in contemporary criminal slang than phrases related to bootlegging. The internet and social media have also become new avenues for the dissemination and evolution of this language, sometimes leading to rapid adoption and modification of terms.

Furthermore, the influence of gangster phrases on popular culture, particularly through music and film, means that many terms have entered the mainstream vernacular. This can sometimes lead to a dilution of their original meaning or context, but it also ensures their continued recognition. So, while the specific vocabulary might shift, the phenomenon of a coded, identity-forming, and operational language within criminal groups is a persistent aspect of the underworld.

What is the difference between gangster phrases and general slang?

The primary difference between gangster phrases and general slang lies in their context, intent, and exclusivity. General slang is broadly used by a wide variety of people within a given culture or subculture, often for informal communication, humor, or to signal group affiliation within a less illicit context. Think of terms like “cool,” “awesome,” or “lit”—these are widely understood and used by many different groups.

Gangster phrases, on the other hand, are typically more specialized and often coded. Their primary purpose is frequently rooted in the operational needs of criminal activities: maintaining secrecy from law enforcement and rival groups, reinforcing internal loyalty, and asserting dominance. While some gangster phrases might cross over into general slang (like “c-note” for a hundred-dollar bill), many remain specific to the criminal underworld. Their usage by outsiders can range from unawareness to an attempt to mimic or romanticize the gangster lifestyle, but it doesn’t carry the same functional weight or ingrained meaning as it does within the community that originated it.

Moreover, the consequences of misusing or misunderstanding gangster phrases can be far more severe than with general slang. A misunderstanding of “cool” is unlikely to lead to trouble, but a misunderstanding or misuse of a phrase related to loyalty, betrayal, or a specific operation within a criminal group could have dangerous repercussions. Essentially, gangster phrases are a subset of slang, distinguished by their application within a specific, often dangerous, and secretive context.

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Words in the Underworld

Understanding gangster phrases is more than just learning a collection of quirky words; it’s about appreciating a complex linguistic system that has evolved alongside organized crime itself. These phrases are windows into the world of secrecy, loyalty, power, and survival that defines this subculture. From the coded whispers of Prohibition-era bootleggers to the modern vernacular of street crews, the language of the gangster has proven remarkably resilient and adaptable.

We’ve explored how these phrases originated from the need for secrecy and group identity, how they categorize everything from illicit activities to the figures involved, and how they reflect the high stakes of loyalty and betrayal. The constant interplay with law enforcement has also shaped a unique lexicon designed to evade capture and minimize consequences. While some terms have permeated mainstream culture, many retain their specific, often potent, meaning within the circles that originated them.

The power of these words lies not just in their surface meaning but in the historical context, the unspoken rules, and the dangerous realities they represent. They are a testament to the enduring human need to communicate, to belong, and to assert oneself, even in the most challenging and clandestine environments. As long as criminal enterprises exist, their language, in its ever-evolving forms, will continue to be a fascinating subject of study and a stark reminder of the hidden worlds that operate alongside our own.