man in the street: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘man in the street’ mean?
The idiom "man in the street" refers to an ordinary person or a typical member of the general public, with no specific expertise or knowledge in a particular field.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "woman on the street" refers to an ordinary woman without any special knowledge or expertise in a particular field or subject.
The idiom "see a man" means to fully understand or comprehend something after witnessing it firsthand.
The idiom "see a man" is commonly used in the English language. It is categorized as an idiom, indicating that it carries a figurative meaning beyond its literal interpretation. The idiom is derived from the act of observing or witnessing a man.
An idiom often used to describe a person who is disliked or considered bad, with negative qualities or behavior.
One of the most popular idioms in English is "rotten egg." This phrase describes a person who is considered bad or unpleasant. The idiom originated in the early 19th century and is still commonly used today.
The idiom "road less traveled" means choosing an unconventional path or taking a less popular route, often in life or decision-making, different from the majority or mainstream choices.
"Rank and file" refers to the ordinary members of a group or organization, who do not hold positions of leadership or decision-making power.
The idiom "put one's pants on one leg at a time" means that someone is just an ordinary person, emphasizing equality and normalcy.
The idiom "put one's pants on one leg at a time" is a commonly used phrase in American English, which emphasizes equality and commonality among people. This expression conveys the idea that everyone, regardless of their status or position, performs everyday tasks in the same manner and is subject to the same limitations.
The idiom "pound the pavement" means to walk or travel on foot, especially in search of employment or to promote a cause.
Pound the pavement is a common American idiom that has been in use since the early 20th century. The phrase is primarily used to describe the act of walking or physically searching for something, often in a determined and persistent manner.
An idiom used to refer to a particular person's character, occupation, or role, highlighting its uniqueness and individuality.
The idiom "outside world" refers to the world beyond a specific place or situation. It represents a realm that is different or separate from one's immediate surroundings. It is often used to emphasize the contrast between one's current situation and the larger world or society.
The idiom "out of touch" means to be unaware or uninformed about a particular topic or the current situation. It implies a lack of understanding or familiarity with something or someone.
The Mysterious Everyman
The idiom "man on the street" is a related phrase to "man in the street" and is also commonly used in English. It has a similar meaning, referring to an ordinary person or a regular citizen. Like "man in the street," it is often used to depict the perspective or opinion of the general public, highlighting their lack of specialized knowledge or expertise in a specific field. The phrase is often employed in similar contexts as "man in the street," emphasizing the importance of considering the opinions and needs of the common people.
The idiomatic expression "woman on the street" is the female counterpart to "man on the street." It serves the same purpose, referring to an ordinary woman or the perspective of the general public. Just like "man in the street," it emphasizes the value of considering the opinions of women in discussions or decision-making processes. The use of this phrase alongside its male counterpart reflects the inclusion and representation of both genders when depicting the voice of the common people.
The idiom "man in the street" is deeply rooted in the English language and has become a significant part of everyday conversation. It serves as a reminder that the viewpoints and experiences of ordinary individuals, whether male or female, hold weight and should be acknowledged in various spheres of life. From politics and media to social discussions, the idiom is often employed to highlight the importance of including the perspectives of the general public in decision-making processes.
While the exact origin of the phrase "man in the street" remains uncertain, its usage can be traced back to at least the early 20th century. During this time, it gained popularity through its frequent appearance in newspapers and political discourse. The phrase potentially originated in American English and gradually made its way into the common lexicon. Its broad usage and recognition indicate its widespread acceptance and understanding among English speakers.
The idiom "man in the street" has evolved to become more than just a linguistic convention. It carries significant meaning and conveys the essence of democratic ideals. The phrase reminds us that every individual, regardless of their level of expertise or specialized knowledge, has a unique perspective that should be taken into account. It emphasizes the inclusion of all voices, whether male or female, in the decision-making process.
When appearing in written form, the idiom "man in the street" should follow the rules of AP style. This includes the removal of introductory or summary paragraphs, as well as the elimination of transitional phrases to ensure a concise and straightforward discussion. Additionally, paragraphs should be kept short, consisting of only 2-3 sentences to optimize readability. The use of short sentences and simple, conversational language is also recommended to maintain a friendly and informal tone.
As an experienced Editor for HubSpot, your role is crucial in improving articles to ensure coherence, readability, and effectiveness. This article can be enhanced by following the AP style guidelines and incorporating the related idioms "man on the street" and "woman on the street" naturally into the text. By adhering to these rules and infusing the article with a conversational and informal tone, you can elevate its quality and engage a well-informed audience.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom man in the street can be used in a sentence:
- The reporter interviewed a few men in the street to get their opinions on the new law.
- Unlike the politicians, the concerns of the man in the street are often overlooked by those in power.
- The survey aimed to gather the perspectives of the men in the street regarding the economic situation.
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