"The" Democrats

[linazelle]

Where did this phrase come from? Every time I hear it, it bothers me. So I've been thinking (a rarity) and here's why I think it is a cheap shot by the media.

It is often used by so-called journalists to attach issues to our side. The problem with "the" is, it is very limiting and defining and seems like some kind of a putdown when used with a group as large as ours. Think Democrats, vs. the Democrats. There's something left unsaid or implied by the "the" that I just can't pinpoint. The other fact is, you hardly ever hear the phrase "the Republicans."

I remember that Democrtas used to be the standard term for us, and of course Republicans remains the standard term for them. So what gives. Am I paranoid, or is there something else hidden in this language that makes us sound like some small group being relegated to the sidelines?

[tom_paine]

1. Not sure I agree with you, linazelle

I mean, the whole "Democrat Party" thing is a well-established propaganda slur.

Not sure about this, though.

Got a link to some prominent examples?

[linazelle]

2. I really don't have a link to any examples...it's just something

I've been noticing for quite a while and I usually see it on television shows where there are alleged journalists.

[tom_paine]

3. OK, but I am still skeptical

That it is a concerted effort like the "Democrat Party" thing.

Maybe you're right. I mean, how long did the Democrat Party slur go one before people realized what it was and what it was about.

[NC_Nurse]

5. OK, I have no idea

what you're talking about. The "Democrat Party" slur?

What is that?

[mac2]

4. Hadn't heard "The Democrats" was a bad phrase.

Is that like "The Republicans", "The President"?

[linazelle]

6. Not really

Using "the" with a singular noun as in the president is one thing, and as I stated I rarely hear it used with republicans. This may be really silly on my part and mean nothing. I just wanted to see if anybody else felt the same way.

[InhaleToTheChief]

7. I hear what you're saying...

It has a sort of ostracizing feel to it...like when right wingers, defending their opposition to gay marriage, start by saying, "Now, look, I have noting against the gays..."

It seems degrading somehow...separatist more than it does without the "the".

[linazelle]

8. sheesh....at least somebody can relate

you captured the feeling I have about it perfectly.

[InhaleToTheChief]

9. Well, that's because you and I...

...have a highly attuned sensitivity to the subtleties of the English language.

;)