Dice
 
 
 
 
 
synonyms: a feller, one, a body, a person, people, I
Hillbilly Dude Says...
This one is in daily use, often showing up right after reckon. 'Reckon a man could...' 
Hillbilly Dude Says...
This one is in daily use, often showing up right after reckon. 'Reckon a man could...' 

Pronunciation

[uh MAN]

Meaning & Usage

- Used in place of "I" (first-person singular)

Elmer:
Reckon a man could just show up unannounced?
Estel:
You could try, but you might get run off.

- Used in place of "one" (general statement)

Elmer:
A man prolly don’t see skies like this in the big city.
Estel:
I'm cravin' strawberry pie, too.
Elmer:
It's time you got your ears looked at.
★ This phrasing makes statements sound less direct and more thoughtful - like the speaker is musing rather than declaring. ★

Origin and Etymology

Likely from older English and Scots-Irish speech patterns where "man" or "one" was used generically. In Appalachia, it took on a personal, reflective use.

Usage Notes

Often heard in older generations, but still pops up in casual conversation. It can sound formal to outsiders, but to locals it’s just plain talk.

Kin Topics

Related Pages

Common Questions

Is "a man" always about the speaker?
Not always - sometimes it’s truly general, but in many cases it’s about the person talking.
Does it only work for men?
Nope - kids and women could use it, too. It’s about the phrase, not gender. But I've only heard it from adult males.

How to Cite This Page

  • APA (7th edition)
    The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, September 13). A Man. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/a-man
  • MLA (9th edition)
    "The Hillbilly Dude." "A Man." HillbillySlang.com, 13 Sept. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/a-man.
  • Chicago (17th edition)
    The Hillbilly Dude. "A Man." HillbillySlang.com. September 13, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/a-man.
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