opinions are like assholes: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘opinions are like assholes’ mean?
The idiom "opinions are like assholes" means that everyone has their own opinions, but they are often considered unpleasant or unnecessary to share.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "some people" refers to an unspecified group of individuals. It is often used to describe certain behaviors, opinions, or actions that are generally disliked or considered negative by a speaker. However, it is important to note that the idiom does not apply to everyone and should not be generalized to all people.
An idiom often used to describe a person who is disliked or considered bad, with negative qualities or behavior.
The idiom "open one's mouth" means to start speaking or expressing an opinion. It implies breaking silence or sharing thoughts.
An idiom meaning to present an alternative viewpoint or contrasting information.
The idiom "on opposite sides of the barricades" means to have conflicting opinions, beliefs, or positions in a particular situation or issue.
The idiom "one side" means to support or favor one person or group over another, often causing a lack of fairness or impartiality in a situation.
The idiom "one's bark is worse than one's bite" means that someone may sound or appear threatening, but they are not actually as dangerous or harmful as they seem.
The idiom *one and the same* means that two or more things or people are identical or indistinguishable from each other.
The idiom "one and all" means every single person or thing, without exception.
The idiom "old saw" refers to a well-known saying or piece of advice that has been repeated many times. It can also describe a cliché or a trite expression.
Surprising Analogies: Asshole-Opinion Comparison.
Opinions are like assholes is an idiom that is widely used in American English. It is a metaphorical expression that compares people's opinions to the anus, implying that everyone has one and they are not always pleasant. The idiom is a blunt and colloquial way of conveying the idea that opinions are often subjective, personal, and can be offensive or inappropriate.
The exact origin and earliest usage of the idiom are unclear. It is a common phrase that has been in circulation for several decades, appearing in various forms of literature, movies, and songs. The idiom gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly through the influence of American comedian and actor Rodney Dangerfield, who frequently used it in his stand-up routines.
While the idiom is often used humorously and casually, it carries a deeper meaning. It serves as a reminder that people's opinions should be taken with caution and that not all opinions are equal in value or worth paying attention to. The idiom suggests that while individuals are entitled to their own opinions, it does not mean that those opinions are necessarily valid, informed, or valuable to others.
In a society where freedom of speech is highly valued, the idiom serves as a reminder that not all opinions carry equal weight or credibility. It underscores the importance of critical thinking, reasoned arguments, and respectful discourse. Just as not all assholes are desirable or pleasant, not all opinions deserve to be taken seriously or given undue importance.
However, it is essential to note that the idiom should not be used as an excuse to dismiss or invalidate the opinions of others indiscriminately. While some opinions may be offensive, misguided, or simply ill-informed, it is important to engage in thoughtful and respectful dialogue instead of resorting to ad hominem attacks or outright dismissal.
Furthermore, the idiom also raises the question of self-awareness and introspection. It implies that individuals should be willing to reflect on their own opinions, acknowledge their limitations, and be open to the possibility of being wrong. It serves as a reminder that being receptive to different perspectives and recognizing the potential flaws in one's own opinions are crucial for personal growth and intellectual development.
On a deeper level, the idiom can be seen as a reflection of the human condition and the complexities of individuality. It highlights the diversity of thoughts, beliefs, and perspectives that exist within society. Just as every person has their own unique physical traits, every individual also has their own unique set of opinions, shaped by their experiences, values, and biases.
The idiom "rotten egg" can be related to the phrase "opinions are like assholes." Just as not all opinions are desirable or pleasant, not all eggs are fresh or edible. The phrase "rotten egg" is often used to describe something that is unpleasant, undesirable, or of poor quality. Similarly, some opinions may be considered rotten, meaning they are offensive, misguided, or simply ill-informed. It is important to recognize and, when necessary, challenge such opinions in order to promote a more inclusive and respectful discourse.
The idiom "anyone's guess" can also be connected to the phrase "opinions are like assholes." Just as not all opinions are valid or well-informed, not all guesses are accurate or reliable. The phrase "anyone's guess" is typically used when the outcome or answer to a question is uncertain or unknown. Similarly, some opinions may be based on limited information or personal bias, making them more akin to guesses rather than informed statements. It is important to be critical of such opinions and seek out more reliable sources of information when forming our own perspectives.
The idiom "some people" can be related to the phrase "opinions are like assholes" in the sense that not all opinions are held by the majority or represent the views of everyone. The phrase "some people" is often used to acknowledge that not everyone shares the same opinion or perspective on a particular issue. Similarly, opinions are subjective and can vary widely from person to person. It is important to recognize and respect the diversity of opinions that exist within society, even if they differ from our own.
The idiom "of one mind" can also be related to the phrase "opinions are like assholes" in the sense that not all opinions are unanimous or collectively held. The phrase "of one mind" is typically used to describe a situation in which everyone agrees or has the same opinion about something. Conversely, the phrase "opinions are like assholes" suggests that opinions are individual and can vary widely. It is important to remember that not everyone will share the same opinion, and that respectful disagreement and open dialogue are essential for a healthy and inclusive society.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "opinions are like assholes" can be used in a sentence:
He always thinks his way is the only right way, but as they say, opinions are like assholes.
She was quick to criticize everyone else's choices without considering her own flaws. Opinions are like assholes, after all.
It's better to listen to multiple perspectives and form your own judgment, because, you know, opinions are like assholes.
Analysis:
The idiom "opinions are like assholes" is used to convey the idea that everyone has an opinion, and like assholes, they don't necessarily hold any particular value or significance. The idiom suggests that opinions are abundant, diverse, and often subjective, just like anatomical body parts.
The metaphorical comparison between opinions and assholes emphasizes that opinions are personal and often offensive or unwanted when imposed upon others. The idiom implies that one should be cautious when blindly accepting or disregarding opinions, as they may not always be reliable or beneficial.
Overall, the idiom serves as a reminder to consider and respect different viewpoints while forming one's own judgment.
More "Slang" idioms
