no tickee, no washee

English

Etymology

A phrase stereotypically attributed to Chinese laundry workers in centuries past, who would only return a customer's washing when the ticket (receipt) was presented.

Phrase

no tickee, no washee

1. (Canada, US, slang) Something is not to be had without an exchange; there will be no deal without the required consideration or recompense.
   • 1974, New York (State). Office of Employee Relations, Grievance and Disciplinary Arbitrations (volume 2, page 118)

     Dr. Weiss said that what he had said was, "No grant, no research, no tickee, no washee."

   • 1999, James Ellroy, The Dudley Smith Trio, page 191:

     'I don't need money. I need information.'
     'And if I don't proffer this information you'll take your business elsewhere?' Buzz nodded toward the tram car. 'No tickee, no washee. […]

   • 2002, Barbara Ann Lambert, Rusty Nails & Ration Books, page 326:

     It was really important to keep the slip of paper, given as a receipt because No tickee, no washee!

Usage notes

• Now likely to be offensive because of its origin as a racist caricature.