The meaning of 10 4 is absolutely worthwhile knowing if you plan to use radio communication. While all the codes can be tricky to remember, to begin with, learning them will help you communicate clearly and succinctly, which is what radio users prefer.
So what is the meaning of 10 4 in CB Talk?
Well, many people think that it refers to “Yes”, or they confuse it with a roger code, meaning that you are likely comfortable with the things the other person says. If that is the case, then you are likely wrong in this context.
The code is part of a standardized method of communication, which is highly efficient for law enforcement officers. So, to make the most of these codes, you may need to identify and realize a few key factors.
What are 10 Codes and Their Meaning?
Otherwise referred to as ten signals, these are special brevity signals, that law enforcement use in communication procedures. It’s a particularly important concept communications technique in the Citizens Band radio system. For police enforcement agencies, the version of the code has the name APCO Project 14 Aural Brevity Code.
The code might be a form of communication used to:
- 1. Share standard messages that the police department can understand.
- 2. A simple code people can use for dispatching services and more.
- 3. The right response to communication and messages. Usually in response to factors such as physical weight, clothing, car used, and more.
- 4. A standard record system for keeping track of activities at the given police setup.
- 5. Other important activities relating to information and crime management in Police departments.
The other notable aspect of using these codes is that they have remained virtually unchanged over the past few years. The main reason for this is that the standards of communication have been highly effective for law enforcement purposes.
Meaning of 10 4 in CB Talk
The meaning of 10 4 in CB talk is just more than a “Yes’ ‘ signal that you come across on online platforms. But before we take a look at the specific meanings of these terms, it’s also good to start with the history and evolution of these codes over the years.
There are various facets of this approach to communication that you have to consider. The guide we have below helps you determine the following key factors about this approach:
- History of the “10-codes” in communication.
- A few common examples for you to consider.
- Benefits of using this approach.
- The common questions asked around this topic.
Why are these Codes so Popular?
There are quite a few reasons why the 10 codes are popular in communications today. As we have already seen before, it’s a form of communication used mostly by law enforcement officers. It’s common among them because it’s convenient to use over professional communication lines. Furthermore, this method of response also helps make communication between law enforcement agencies highly professional.
The other reason why the 10 codes are popular is that they have been common among various types of entertainment platforms. Many movies, sitcoms, and general videos sometimes incorporate this type of talk in general scripts. The occurrence of these codes in such content helps increase their popularity all across the world today.
It’s a communication standard that law enforcement officers from all around the country can understand. Remember that America is a large country, and law enforcement officers sometimes have to interact in pursuing justice. With this form of communication, sharing insight and details on a given issue becomes a simple process.
History of 10 4 Codes
Before you start learning more about these codes, it could be good to spin back the time wheel and look back at the history of these codes. Why? You take a look at the history of these codes, to get a perspective of how they were used in the past.
If you have ever asked, where did the 10-4 in CB talk come from, well you will be surely surprised. You will notice not many people are savvy on this topic.
However, further research should reveal that it started in the latter half of the 1930s, whereby it was used as part of police signaling. They created it as part of an international standard meant to help enhance police efficiency.
The first notable use of the code was somewhere around the 1950s. It was commonly used among Highway Patrol Teams in Television programs.
Another excellent example would be the 1975 hit song known as “Convoy.” The crux of the song identifies the unique communication going on between truck drivers. The song incorporates various other similar codes, and these are cultural trends you can relate to the origins of the song.
Ten Four Meaning
We have come across the origins of the meaning of 10 4 codes. Now, let us perform further research on the genuine meanings of this code.
The code has become common in various other areas, other than for police officers on patrol. It’s sometimes also used as slang, for acknowledging anything that someone says.
When you mention the term 10-4 through your CB radio, it simply shows that you have “received and acknowledged the task or statement someone says on a given topic. “
A good example would be the following conversions.
1. Trucker Company Conversations
Trucker 1: “Is there any space in the Central Hall Garage of the Company for my truck.”
Respondent: “Unfortunately, no. You may have to park it downtown and wait for feedback from the team first.”
Trucker 1: “10-4.”
2. Slang in Normal Conversations
Person 1: “I will be going out for a pizza today, I feel like eating one.
Person 2: “Hey, while you are going out for pizza, remember that I only take the Vegan-friendly types.”
Person 1: “10-4.”
3. Law Enforcement Conversations
Police Officer 1: “What is the status of the suspect, I am en route to the scene as we speak?”
Police Officer 2: “The suspect is on foot along 69th street avenue. The suspect is armed and dangerous. I repeat the suspect is armed and dangerous.”
Police Officer 2: “10 – 4. My E.T.A for the crime scene is about 10 minutes. Roger and out!”
Who Can Use This Form of Communication
While this method of communication is primarily reserved for law enforcement agencies, almost any entity can use it to send messages. There are no restrictions or standards set for any party to use or access these codes.
It’s perfectly legal to use the 10-4 codes for communication purposes. Broadly speaking, these just refer to a set of 10 codes, which you can use to affirm and share messages. Various law enforcement agencies have to go through tests to help improve their grasp of these codes.
Even the traditional conversion can still include these codes. There are no ramifications from law enforcement agencies for using it other than to avoid using them over police signals.
The codes are also common among trucker or supply companies that have several staff members. Using this approach to communication helps make things easy, especially as drivers often use different dialects.
Most trucking and product supply procedures don’t perform any modifications to the language, because they use it as it is.
What are The Other Common 10 CB Codes
Aside from understanding the meaning of 10 4, there are various other 10 codes that you should be aware of, and these are also common in the communication process. They include:
- 10-1 Receiving poorly.
- 10-2 Excellent reception.
- 10-4 Received.
- 10-5 Share message.
- 10-6 Stand by.
- 10-7 Not available.
- 10-9 Resend message.
- 10-11 Talking hastily.
What are the Benefits of Using This Approach to Language
Using this approach to language is of particular importance to the police, who often have to engage in various crime-fighting activities. A few benefits of the benefits of this method to language can include:
Convenient Method of Communication
Communicating using this method can be highly convenient for various types of communication. Whether it’s for agreeing to tasks assigned or perhaps sharing insight with other staff members it’s highly convenient.
Law enforcement officers no longer have to use the traditional syntax of the language, which is easy to recognize. They can use a new method of communication, which is efficient and convenient to use. Plus, your ability to master these codes of language is easier than learning an entirely new dialect.
Approved Standard
The use of the “10 codes” is an approved standard of communication worldwide. Many people, including those in the entertainment scene, use it to share information. For the police, this approach to communication is well recognized and approved for official use.
However, staff members often have to go for training before they can start using this method to communicate. Why? The main reason for this is to help reduce any issues associated with using a CB radio. A good issue example would be the compromised communication that might occur between staff members and the police.
Recognized Worldwide
The other significant benefit of this method of communication is that it’s a well-recognized industry standard. It makes police work and communication a simple process, especially since these procedures sometimes involve sharing lots of detail.
Using the traditional language or syntax to communicate in such instances is not always effective. Thus, with the “10 codes” being internationally recognized, they are excellent methods of communication.
Easy to Understand Communication Mode
Unlike learning a completely new dialect or language, learning and grasping the use of the 10-4 codes is a highly simple process. You may just need a few weeks of learning and practice to have it all down. Plus, the code never changes, so you don’t have to worry about any changes that may occur to its syntax or applicability in your field.
Once you have mastered it, you will find it easy to use to communicate ideas and share useful information with law enforcement agencies. The code just requires practice, as tracking their specific meanings can be a challenge. In total, they are 10 and have never changed ever since they become standard means of communication.
FAQ
What Does 10 4 Mean on the Radio?
It just means “acknowledged.” It’s an especially important code in police agency communications. The code first got public recognition in the mid-1950s, based on the popular show known as Highway Patrol. The show involved a famous actor known as Broderick Crawford. He would use the term as part of communications.
What is the Ideal Response to 10 4?
10-4 refers to affirmative. Some people credit the use of the codes to Illinois communications senior Charles Hooper. He created the codes early in the 1930s to use in radio communications. At the time, communication resources were still poor, so they came into the foreground just recently.
Does the Military Use 10 4?
No, the military does not use these codes. You will only come across these codes in the police force. The army uses codes such as “Roger That” as alternatives.
Are there any Law Enforcement Agencies in the World that Use 10 Codes?
Yes, many different countries use this method of communication because it’s highly professional and standardized. The codes are recognized across various countries including Canada, Australia, and more.
Who is Allowed to Use the 10 Codes for Communication?
There are various parties who can use this approach to communication, as there are no rules that restrict its use. The people who commonly use it include trucking companies, product supply organizations, movies, and more.
Conclusion
Overall, using codes to communicate is one of the most common and convenient measures used today. So, what does 10-4 mean in CB talk? Well, it refers to a specific code one can use to acknowledge or approve a message. Using this approach to communication has been effective for years.
Plus, this approach to communication is also an approved standard, and suitable for law enforcement purposes. That said, people also commonly use it as part of regular conversations.
Looking to learn more about radio communication and code, check out the CB radio codes and slang post.