Loaded phrases

[teddywolf]

For years I've heard the words 'limousine liberal' and cringed. Most liberals don't drive around in limos. And yet I've never heard a comparable phrase for the other side of the political fence. So, tonight I came up with one. I hereby present to you that phrase:

Rolls-Royce Republicans.

Please go use it, thank you very much and don't forget to tip your waitress.

Comments

[hfcougar.livejournal.com]

The term "limousine liberal" seems a lot like the term "lipstick lesbian" to me. The unwritten subtext I see is that no, most liberals don't drive around in limousines; it's a way to get a dig in at the ones that do. I'm presuming it's something along the lines of someone who claims lofty liberal ideals but in reality is just as privileged and white-collar as any (stereotypical) Republican. Someone who's not your average liberal, someone who's "betraying the cause".

[http://users.livejournal.com/kai_/]

I always thought of a "lipstick lesbian" as a lezzie who's got the femme thing going on... didn't ever think of it any other way...

now if the phrase were "lipstick feminist" ... then it would make sense that it's a turncoat term.

[hfcougar.livejournal.com]

"Lipstick lesbian" is a term for a femme lesbian. It can also be a term of derision: in some archaic circles, a "real" (read: stereotypical) lesbian isn't supposed to be femme or wear lipstick.

There's nothing inherently wrong with a lesbian wearing lipstick, nor with a liberal having a limo ride. But the perception that creates the insult is that a "real" liberal either shouldn't be able to afford to ride in a limo, or should be spending the money he'd use on a limousine for social good.