uncle sam
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Proper noun:
- A personification of the United States government: "Uncle Sam" is a common national personification and symbol of the United States federal government, its policies, and its people. The figure is typically depicted as a stern, elderly white man with white hair and a goatee, dressed in clothing that echoes elements of the American flag.
Usage Examples
- Proper noun:
- The poster showed Uncle Sam pointing directly at the viewer with the caption "I Want You For U.S. Army." (This is a famous recruitment image.)
- Many citizens feel that Uncle Sam takes too much of their income in taxes. (Here, "Uncle Sam" refers to the U.S. government's taxation authority.)
- The new regulations are just another way for Uncle Sam to get involved in private business.
Advanced Usage
"Uncle Sam wants you": A famous phrase from historical recruitment posters, now used more broadly to imply that the government has a demand or requirement for its citizens.
- With the new jury duty notices mailed out, it seems Uncle Sam wants you again.
Used to represent the authority, bureaucracy, or sometimes the perceived intrusiveness of the federal government.
- You can't avoid dealing with Uncle Sam when you file your annual taxes.
Variants and Related Words
Sam (n, informal): A shortened, informal reference to "Uncle Sam."
- I just got my refund check from Sam.
Brother Jonathan: An earlier personification of the United States, largely replaced by Uncle Sam in the 19th century.
Synonyms
- The U.S. government: The federal government of the United States.
- The federal government: The national government based in Washington, D.C.
- Washington: A metonym for the U.S. government and its operations (e.g., ).
Related Idioms and Phrases
Work for Uncle Sam: To be employed by the U.S. government.
- After college, she went to work for Uncle Sam at the Department of State.
Answer to Uncle Sam: To be accountable to or under the authority of the U.S. government.
- As a government contractor, our company ultimately answers to Uncle Sam.
Noun
- a personification of the United States government