Editors used the bus plunge headline to fill empty space on the page.
bus plunge
idiomA phrase often used in filler story headlines in print newspapers, prior to the adoption of computer-aided typesetting and publishing methods, as it filled out the usual width of a column in the eight-column layout then prevalent in the industry.
Origin
disputed originFrom bus + plunge.
In the era of physical typesetting, the bus plunge was a common filler headline used to balance the columns of a newspaper.
Before digital publishing transformed the industry, the bus plunge served as a reliable, albeit repetitive, placeholder for typesetters struggling to justify the width of their columns.
- 01
drive the porcelain bus
Synonym of worship the porcelain god (“to vomit into a toilet bowl, especially while drunk or hungover”).
- 02
face like the back end of a bus
A very ugly face.
- 03
park the bus
To attempt to stop the opposition team from scoring a goal by playing extremely defensively and placing as many players as possible behind the ball.
- 04
plunge in
To start a new endeavor enthusiastically and wholeheartedly, though possibly without experience.
- 05
ride the short bus
To participate in a special education program, such as for those with learning disabilities.
- 06
take the plunge
To begin any major commitment.