There was a report on CBS News recently about the phrase “Man Up” which was used by political candidates in the run up to the Congressional elections.
It is a brilliant put-down. People instinctively understand what the phrase means, even if they have never heard it before. When used by a female politician, it completely emasculates her male opponent and creates the impression of him being weak and indecisive - traits which are not helpful for a politician.
Two small words - five letters in total - yet they deliver a mighty political punch. A good example of the old adage: “Less is more”.