Devoted to technical writing and technical writers

How many times have we either heard or made use of the expression: “Go tell it to the Marines!” In common usage, the phrase is meant to express disbelief at a statement made by another. In other words, the other person would either be lying or exaggerating!

Where did this unique phrase come from? It seems that during the 1800s, when British Men-of-War roamed the high seas, the Royal Marines onboard were subject to this derisiveness, implying that they were all stupid or ignoramuses. Thus, tall tales or the like were likely to be “told to the marines.”

Of course, one would risk life and limb if one were to make such a derogatory remark – either in writing or verbally – to a or British Marine these days. These fighting men probably exemplify that rare breed of soldier, the chosen few who can tackle any obstacle or objective without fear. So, be careful when addressing today’s modern Marine, one of the chosen few!

sourced by JMJF