Often we use cliched phrases without thinking about the consequences. What one person will perceive with humor and consider it a compliment, the other will remember and accept it with arrogance. Where is the line between tactful conversation and outright insolence? It all depends on the interlocutors and the proximity of the relationship between them. Is the definition of a man suitable for a modern man? Is this acceptable or not? Let's try to figure this out.
Meaning of the word “man”
What is a "man" in the current sense? Most people think this is a slang term. It has a bright emotional connotation: men gather in a garage for thematic gatherings, drink beer in liters to watch the next match, work at metallurgical plants and do not shave their beard for months. But no one would even think of calling a business man in a suit at dinner in a restaurant a man — only a man.
This distinction of usage is primarily associated with its origin. Let's start from the time of agrarian society. A man is a synonym for the word "peasant". That is, this is a simple, hard-working person who works from dusk to dawn and is not too developed in cultural terms, unlike a city dweller. You can find a similar definition in other dictionaries:
- In the dictionary of jargon, there is a convicted person who works conscientiously in correctional labor.
- In the dictionary of the respected V. I. Dahl - a man of the lower class.
- In the spelling dictionary, the prefix -ik- defines a diminutive and affectionate meaning, which gives the lexical unit a tinge of insignificance, neglect.
- In the dictionary of synonyms - ignoramus.
- And already in the modern explanatory dictionary edited by T. F. Efremova, this word is used in the meaning of "ignorant, ill-bred man, commoner."
From the dictionary meaning of this word it follows that it still has a more negative connotation than a positive one. But there is no categorical condemnation by society of this concept, so now it is widely used in a more emotional, hyperbolic speech.
Speech features
Using the turnover "real man", you need to remember about its original meaning. The thoughtless use of such controversial speech turns can lead to conflicts and misunderstanding between the interlocutors. Now in the public domain there are many explanatory dictionaries. It is never too late to work on your literacy and look for an unfamiliar word or phrase in doubt in the reference literature. This is one of the main principles of self-education - independence and the right motivation.
So, in cultural speech, expressive expressions that can be perceived in two ways, try to avoid. But for everyday communication, where not one of the men is against such treatment and is even proud of his "title", this will be quite appropriate and harmonious.
In what situation is a man called a man
"Man" is definitely not an insulting word. In fiction, periodicals and television, you can hear this word in a positive context. Determination, strength, analytical mind are properties that are associated with a man. Any representative of the stronger sex is proud of their pristine qualities that nature has more than endowed with.
As a rule, men are called strong, confident, hardworking guys who are able to answer for their actions. In their environment, it is customary to communicate without snot with sugar, and clearly on the case. A kind of symbol of the animal male principle is laid down in the meaning of this word. And use it is not shameful.
Offensive or pleasant?
There are situations where the word “man” may be misunderstood. For example, turning in a similar way to a passerby, you can deservedly get a slap in the face. Since a person on the street will perceive this as a violation of boundaries in communication. There are also guys who would be offensive to hear such treatment - and this is also normal. In a word, you can hurt more than in deed. This is a powerful tool for interacting with people, so you should always think before you speak.
"Man" - it seems to be such a familiar treatment, but has a complex etymology. In order to express praise to the addressee with a similar word, it will be necessary to use additional tools: intonation, facial expressions, gestures and context should be appropriate. There is a fine line between offending a man with this word, and, conversely, expressing respect.
A real man is every woman’s dream
The most popular and frequent use of this word is the phrase "real man." Naive freshmen, single ladies, and desperate housewives, dissatisfied with their own way of life, dream of real men. All around give advice to men, what exactly should he be in order to become "real".
- A real man is strong and independent. He cannot afford momentary weakness. He is responsible for his decisions and actions. Perhaps this characterizes an adult.
- A real man clearly sees the boundary between the main and the secondary. He does not waste his time on stupidity, but is engaged in achieving the desired - power, wealth and family.
- Real men do not gossip. They do not discuss and do not condemn other people, since this energy can be directed to some useful occupation.
- A real man keeps his word. Promises for him are not an empty phrase.
- And, in the end, a real man does not look effeminate. Long hair, piercings, glamorous clothes - all this is excluded in the male image.
Only all of these recommendations are not the key to happiness. You can be an exemplary man in every sense, but you will not please someone anyway and remain on the ruins of your own ideality. Are these tips right, each man will decide for himself.
Relationship Templates
"You are a man, you must …" - followed by a tirade of male "duty". In a similar situation between a man and a woman, this pattern is dangerous and destructive. What does the word "man" mean in this sense? That a man owes everything, owes everything, but he himself has no right to feelings, desires and emotions?
Hanging the label "man" on her beloved man, a woman drives him into a dead end with her expectations. Fear of not meeting someone’s hopes is the right way to a quick end. To prevent this from happening, partners need everything, so that everyone makes his own contribution to the relationship, the contribution that he himself considers necessary. You can’t make a person love. And if you love, you will do something pleasant for the sake of your beloved, without writing it down on his virtual duty. “A man owes nothing to anyone” is the attitude for a healthy relationship.
