He quit his job to stick it to the man.
stick it to the man
idiomTo take some action intended to defy a source of oppression such as globalization, commercialization, big business or government (on a large scale) or individual leaders and authorities like teachers, bosses, police, or politicians.
The students organized a protest against the new school rules to stick it to the man.
By refusing to follow the company's exploitative policies, the employees felt they were finally sticking it to the man.
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be a man
To put up with something or take responsibility for it; to deal with something, such as pain or misfortune, without complaining.
- 02
be one's own man
To behave independently without the influence of others.
- 03
be the bigger man
To walk away from a conflict to prevent it from escalating.
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beat off with a stick
To reject (a person making an unwanted amorous approach).
- 05
beat with the ugly stick
Used to describe someone who is particularly ugly or unattractive.
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boldly go where no man has gone before
To break new ground.
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broken man
A man who has suffered significant and enduring emotional pain as a result of a highly unpleasant or traumatic event.
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carrot and stick
The simultaneous rewarding of good behavior and punishing of bad behavior.
Last updated April 17, 2026