# see a man

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/see-a-man
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Used in place of a real explanation when excusing oneself for a short period of time, particularly (euphemistic) to use the toilet or (historical) drink alcohol.

## Examples

- I will be right back, I have to see a man about a dog.
- Excuse me for a moment, I need to see a man about a dog before the movie starts.
- He stood up abruptly, offering only a vague excuse about needing to see a man about a dog, and left the room.

## Origin

Clipping of see a man about a dog.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.