Is jerry-rig standard English?

It is common in speech, but many people prefer "jury-rig" in careful writing.

What is the difference between jerry-rig and jury-rig?

They often mean the same thing, but "jury-rig" is usually treated as the standard form.

Is jerry-rig formal or informal?

It is informal. Use it in speaking or casual writing, not formal reports.

Can I use jerry-rig for software fixes?

Yes, if the fix is rough, quick, and temporary.

← Dictionary

jerry-rig

/ˈdʒer.i rɪɡ/

IELTSAcademic

verb

To fix, build, or change something in a quick, rough, or temporary way. It often suggests using whatever is available, not proper tools or materials.

We jerry-rigged the door until the repairman came.
He jerry-rigged a stand from old boxes.
They jerry-rigged the phone charger with tape.

Adinary Nuance

Jerry-rig is close to jury-rig and hack together, but it often sounds less standard. Many writers prefer jury-rig for a rough temporary repair. Jerry-rig is common in everyday speech, but some style guides still treat it as a mistaken form.

In other languages

Vietnamese: chắp vá
Spanish: improvisar
Chinese: 临时拼凑
Japanese: 間に合わせる
Korean: 임시변통하다

Etymology

This word appeared in American English in the 20th century. Its exact origin is unclear, but it is linked to the older phrase "jury-rig."

Common phrases

jerry-rig somethingjerry-rig a fixjerry-rig a solution

Synonyms

jury-rig improvise hack together rig

Related words

makeshift temporary repair fix

Frequently asked questions

Is jerry-rig standard English?: It is common in speech, but many people prefer "jury-rig" in careful writing.
What is the difference between jerry-rig and jury-rig?: They often mean the same thing, but "jury-rig" is usually treated as the standard form.
Is jerry-rig formal or informal?: It is informal. Use it in speaking or casual writing, not formal reports.
Can I use jerry-rig for software fixes?: Yes, if the fix is rough, quick, and temporary.