a man
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "a man" can mean "I" or "one" in a reflective or hypothetical statement.
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Hillbilly Dude Says...
Pronunciation
[uh MAN]
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We aim to get true definitions and pronunciations for ever single word we can find. Plus real-life tales from the hills - some funny, some maybe downright wild.
Meaning & Usage
- Used in place of "I" (first-person singular)
Elmer
Reckon a man could just show up unannounced?
Estel
- Used in place of "one" (general statement)
Elmer
Estel
I'm cravin' strawberry pie, too.
Elmer
It's time you got your ears looked at.
other spellings: a feller, one, and a body
★ This phrasing makes statements sound less direct and more thoughtful - like the speaker is musing rather than declaring. ★