Fixin’ to Get Whupped

In Southern and Appalachian speech, "Fixin’ to Get Whupped" means about to get punished or scolded - a hallmark regional phrasing combining "fixin’ to" (getting ready to) and "whupped" (whipped).

#SouthernSayings #Appalachia #Southern #ScoldingandTeasing

Hillbilly Dude Says...

I'd say you hear 'you fixin’ to get whupped' in a more playful way - like if a good friend keepings pokin' fun at your mustache.

Hillbilly Dude Says...

I'd say you hear 'you fixin’ to get whupped' in a more playful way - like if a good friend keepings pokin' fun at your mustache.

Pronunciation

[FIK-sin tuh GET WUPT] /ˈfɪksɪn tə ɡɛt wʌpt/

Meaning & Usage

- About to be punished / in trouble (expression)

Pearl:

You keep throwing that ball in the house"

Jeb:

"and you’re fixin’ to get whupped when Daddy gets home.

variations: About to Get Whupped, Fixing to Get Whipped, On the Verge of a Whuppin’, In Trouble

★ "Fixin’ to" is one of the most iconic Southern/Appalachian ways to say "about to" or "getting ready to." Paired with "whupped" (the regional pronunciation of "whipped" or "whooped"), it makes a vivid warning phrase. ★

Origin and Etymology

"Fixin’ to" dates back to 19th-century Southern speech meaning "preparing to." "Whupped" is the Southern pronunciation of "whipped." Together they form a classic family of regional expressions about getting into trouble.

Usage Notes

Still widely heard in Southern/Appalachian households, especially in playful or scolding contexts with children. Outside the region it may be recognized but sounds quaint or humorous.

Say It Like a Southerner

Say it natural: "fixin’ tuh get whupped" - "fixin’" instead of "fixing," and "whupped" instead of "whipped." Often said as a warning to kids or joking with friends.

Kin Topics

Common Questions

Does "fixin’ to" always mean "about to"?

Yes - it’s the Southern way of saying "getting ready to" or "on the verge of."

Is "whupped" just "whipped"?

Yes - it’s the authentic regional pronunciation.

Is "fixin’ to get whupped" still used today?

Yes - especially among older speakers, parents, and storytellers.

How to Cite This Page

APA (7th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, September 23). Fixin’ to Get Whupped. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/fixin-to-get-whupped
MLA (9th edition)
"The Hillbilly Dude." "Fixin’ to Get Whupped." HillbillySlang.com, 23 Sept. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/fixin-to-get-whupped.
Chicago (17th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. "Fixin’ to Get Whupped." HillbillySlang.com. September 23, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/sayings/fixin-to-get-whupped.

advertisement...