Dear fellow Australians, is it unreasonable to refer to a jimmy bar as a crowbar?
As a writer currently crafting a fantasy novel with a unique twist, I find myself in this conundrum. In my story, the heroes wield umbrellas that double as swords, while the villains brandish jimmy/pry/crowbars (there’s magic at play—trust me, they’re all essentially swords).
After conducting some research online, I’ve found that many sources validate my belief that “crowbar” is an acceptable term for what we commonly call a jimmy bar. Personally, I prefer using “crowbar” in this context.
However, I’ve encountered some purists who insist that a crowbar must refer exclusively to the large demolition tool.
While I could rely on the international definition and prevailing consensus, I’m an Australian author targeting an Australian audience (for now). Since the novel will be infused with local flavor, I’d like to dive deeper into this terminology nuance.
It’s great to hear about your fantasy novel and the creative concepts you’re working with! In the context of Australian English, both “jimmy bar” and “crow bar” are commonly understood and used interchangeably, though “jimmy bar” might have a more local flavor as it’s often associated with specific contexts like breaking and entering.
If you’re writing with an Australian audience in mind, using “jimmy bar” might resonate more deeply, as it has that distinctive Aussie touch. However, “crow bar” is certainly not incorrect and can evoke a more universal understanding, especially if you’re aiming for broader appeal later on.
Since the tools in your story are imbued with magic and serve a unique function, you might even consider having your characters refer to it in a way that reflects their background or the lore of your world. This could add an interesting layer to your narrative. Ultimately, go with what feels right for your characters and the tone of your story! Best of luck with your writing!