Recherche parmi différents professeurs en Anglais…
Marta
What does "old so and so" mean?
16 mars 2018 16:33
Réponses · 8
3
Hey Marta,
The expression ''so and so'' is considered to be an euphemistic way of addressing someone with an insulting term of address. (This is usually euphemistic for son of a bitch. However, it is also used for good friends, especially male to male, to show affection.) It gets the idea of ''a despised person.''
Here are some examples for you:
1) ''This lousy so-and-so tried to take me for 400 bucks.''
2) ''You dirty so-and-so! I can't stand you!''
Hope that helps!
16 mars 2018
2
It's an informal and not very respectful way of referring to another person.
"So and so" is often used as a substitute for a person's name when giving an example, or it can sometimes be a substitute for an insulting name.
For example, if you complain to your friend that a particular shopkeeper was rude to you, your friend might agree and say "Yes, he's an old so-and-so, isn't he?". Here 'so-and-so' would mean a bad-tempered and dislikable person.
16 mars 2018
Those answering below say things I would agree with, but I'd add that "old so and so" was once such a common expression, that I'd include the "old" in the expression, as you did.
This then becomes "old so and so" = disrespectful term for someone older. (Possibly used endearingly)
I'd not call it a euphemism for anything stronger. It is simply not strong.
.
The main idea to me, is that the person has earned your disrespect through their actions.
16 mars 2018
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Marta
Compétences linguistiques
Anglais, Italien
Langue étudiée
Anglais
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